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Stinson Restoration Test Flight Ends in Crash; No Intent to Fly Claimed (N993C)

Aurora, CO, US

On April 12, 1989, a Stinson 108-3 (registration N993C) operated by Lepka, Richard L. was involved in an aviation accident near Aurora, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS BY THE PILOT. LACK OF RECENT EXPERIENCE IN THE TYPE OF AIRCRAFT IS CONSIDERED A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a test flight of a restored Stinson, a gust of wind caused loss of control, resulting in a crash. The pilot initially denied intent to fly, and the accident was not reported until the next day.

Accident Overview

A Stinson aircraft undergoing overhaul and restoration was involved in an accident during a takeoff ground run. According to the private-rated passenger, the commercial pilot (who held A&P/IA certifications) decided to take the plane around the pattern for a test flight. However, the pilot stated in a written report that no flight was intended. Both agreed that a strong gust of wind struck the aircraft during the ground roll, lifting the right wing. The airplane then departed the runway to the left, the left wing struck the terrain, and the aircraft cartwheeled.

Damage and Post-Accident Events

The fuselage, both wing spars, and the stabilator were broken. A post-accident inspection revealed that the aircraft had been moved from the accident scene to the rear of a hangar, stripped of all instrumentation, and abandoned. Witnesses and the airport manager reported the accident the following day. The pilot did not report the accident to the NTSB or FAA until contacted by letter. The pilot reported that a 'dust devil' struck the aircraft, but the passenger and witnesses reported a strong gust.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Apr 1989 Stinson 108-3 accident near Aurora, CO?

During a test flight of a restored Stinson, a gust of wind caused loss of control, resulting in a crash. The pilot initially denied intent to fly, and the accident was not reported until the next day.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Apr 1989 involved a Stinson 108-3, registration N993C, operated by Lepka, Richard L., at Aurora, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS BY THE PILOT. LACK OF RECENT EXPERIENCE IN THE TYPE OF AIRCRAFT IS CONSIDERED A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28081. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.