On May 11, 1989, a Cessna 175A (registration N7002E) operated by William H. Hickle was involved in an aviation accident near Mojave, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT PLANNING/PREPARATION, AND THE PILOT'S DISREGARD OF THE WIND INFORMATION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While taxiing for takeoff, wind lifted the left main wheel, turned the airplane, and flipped it inverted. Pilot indicated winds exceeded tower report of 300° at 30 knots gusting 45.
Incident Details
During taxi for takeoff, the airplane encountered wind conditions that caused the left main wheel to lift off the ground. The wind then turned the airplane around and raised the tail high enough to flip the aircraft forward into an inverted position.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that the winds experienced during the event were greater than those reported by the tower. The pilot did not specify the heading at the time the problem began.
Tower Wind Report
The tower reported wind direction from 300 degrees at 30 knots, with gusting to 45 knots.
Outcome
The airplane ended up in an inverted position as a result of the wind-induced rotation and flip.
What happened in the 11 May 1989 Cessna 175A accident near Mojave, CA?
While taxiing for takeoff, wind lifted the left main wheel, turned the airplane, and flipped it inverted. Pilot indicated winds exceeded tower report of 300° at 30 knots gusting 45.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 May 1989 involved a Cessna 175A, registration N7002E, operated by William H. Hickle, at Mojave, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT PLANNING/PREPARATION, AND THE PILOT'S DISREGARD OF THE WIND INFORMATION.
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