On September 9, 1987, a Cessna 182RG (registration N251NW) was involved in an aviation accident near Marine City, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to crosswind conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot lost directional control immediately after lift-off due to crosswind, causing the aircraft to drift left, cartwheel, and come to rest upside down before burning.
What happened
The pilot in command (PIC) experienced a loss of directional control during the initial phase of flight. Immediately after the aircraft lifted off the runway, it began to drift to the left, moving away from the paved surface. The pilot noted that a crosswind was present at the time of lift-off, which contributed to the lateral movement.
As the aircraft continued to drift, it entered a cartwheeling motion on the ground. This violent maneuver caused the aircraft to flip over, coming to rest in an inverted position. Following the impact and subsequent fire, both the pilot and the passenger were able to exit the aircraft as it began to burn.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to crosswind conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 9 Sept 1987 Cessna 182RG accident near Marine City, MI?
The pilot lost directional control immediately after lift-off due to crosswind, causing the aircraft to drift left, cartwheel, and come to rest upside down before burning.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Sept 1987 involved a Cessna 182RG, registration N251NW, at Marine City, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff due to crosswind conditions.
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