Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over During Taxi in Gusty Winds (N4174L)

Anacortes, WA, US

On October 27, 1990, a Cessna 172G (registration N4174L) operated by Penwell, Frank M. was involved in an aviation accident near Anacortes, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT POORLY COMPENSATED FOR THE 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

While taxiing after landing in 45-knot winds gusting to 60 knots, the pilot applied aileron and elevator downwind. After a gust caused the right wing to rise, the pilot's attempt to turn into the wind failed, and turning away led to a nose-over.

Incident Details

Following landing, as the aircraft taxied toward the parking ramp, it encountered strong winds. The pilot reported wind conditions of 45 knots, with gusts reaching 60 knots. During taxi, the pilot was applying aileron and elevator inputs to keep the aircraft down to the wind.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft had been turned approximately 20 degrees toward the ramp when a wind gust struck the airplane from the side. This gust pushed the aircraft sideways, causing the right wing to rise. In response, the pilot attempted to turn the aircraft into the wind to counter the lift. However, the pilot was unable to complete the turn. Subsequently, the pilot turned the aircraft away from the wind, at which point the airplane nosed over.

Contributing Factors

No contributing factors or causal analysis were provided in the source. The report solely describes the pilot's actions and the aircraft's response to the gusty wind conditions during taxi.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Oct 1990 Cessna 172G accident near Anacortes, WA?

While taxiing after landing in 45-knot winds gusting to 60 knots, the pilot applied aileron and elevator downwind. After a gust caused the right wing to rise, the pilot's attempt to turn into the wind failed, and turning away led to a nose-over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Oct 1990 involved a Cessna 172G, registration N4174L, operated by Penwell, Frank M., at Anacortes, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT POORLY COMPENSATED FOR THE WIND CONDITION.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24551. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.