Casualties unknown

Aircraft Inverted While Taxiing in Gusty Winds (N3783L)

Savoy, IL, US

On December 2, 1989, a Cessna 172G (registration N3783L) was involved in an aviation accident near Savoy, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN HIS INABILITY TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRCRAFT. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: THE ADVERSE WIND CONDITION. 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

After landing, while taxiing in strong gusty winds, a wind gust lifted the left wing and flipped the aircraft inverted. Wind reported 300° at 30 knots gusting 40 knots. Pilot had received preflight briefing and en route updates.

Event Description

Following a cross-country flight, the aircraft had landed and was taxiing from the runway toward the parking area. While taxiing in strong, gusty winds, a wind gust lifted the left wing and forced the aircraft over, resulting in an inverted position.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the incident, wind at the airport was reported from 300 degrees at 30 knots, with gusts to 40 knots. All weather services had indicated high surface winds that were increasing in strength throughout the day, with gusts.

Pilot Actions

Before departure, the pilot obtained a preflight weather briefing. During the flight, the pilot continued to receive weather updates and en route advisories. The pilot was thus informed of the windy conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Dec 1989 Cessna 172G accident near Savoy, IL?

After landing, while taxiing in strong gusty winds, a wind gust lifted the left wing and flipped the aircraft inverted. Wind reported 300° at 30 knots gusting 40 knots. Pilot had received preflight briefing and en route updates.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Dec 1989 involved a Cessna 172G, registration N3783L, at Savoy, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN HIS INABILITY TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRCRAFT. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: THE ADVERSE WIND CONDITION.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29929. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.