Casualties unknown

Private Pilot Loses Control During Taxi in High Winds (N70844)

Pierre, SD, US

On January 11, 1990, a Cessna 182M (registration N70844) operated by Roland E. Kemink was involved in an aviation accident near Pierre, SD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during taxi operations in gusty winds, which resulted in the aircraft overturning. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot experienced a loss of directional control while taxiing after landing, resulting in the aircraft overturning due to strong gusting winds.

What happened

The private pilot completed a cross-country flight and landed on runway 31. Upon arrival, the pilot estimated the wind conditions as coming from 310 degrees at 25 knots, with gusts reaching 45 knots. As the aircraft exited the runway onto the taxiway, the pilot reported that the wind suddenly increased significantly, estimating a gust of approximately 62 knots.

During this maneuver, the strong crosswind lifted the tail of the aircraft, causing it to nosedive forward. The force of the wind and the resulting loss of control led to the aircraft overturning. The plane came to rest in an inverted position on the ground.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during taxi operations in gusty winds, which resulted in the aircraft overturning.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Jan 1990 Cessna 182M accident near Pierre, SD?

A private pilot experienced a loss of directional control while taxiing after landing, resulting in the aircraft overturning due to strong gusting winds.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Jan 1990 involved a Cessna 182M, registration N70844, operated by Roland E. Kemink, at Pierre, SD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during taxi operations in gusty winds, which resulted in the aircraft overturning.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22405. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.