No fatalities

Airplane Overturns During Taxi After Landing in Gusty Winds (N12447)

Crescent City, CA, US

On June 3, 1991, a Cessna 172M (registration N12447) operated by Duane Langeliers was involved in an aviation accident near Crescent City, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO EMPLOY PROPER FLIGHT CONTROL POSITIONING TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE DURING TAXI. 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

A private pilot taxiing after landing at an intermediate refueling stop experienced a loss of control when strong winds lifted the left wing, flipping the airplane inverted. The sole occupant was not injured.

Overview

A certificated private pilot was taxiing after landing at an intermediate refueling stop during a cross-country flight when the airplane was overturned by strong winds. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained no injuries.

Sequence of Events

The pilot had landed on Runway 29. Wind conditions were reported as from 330 degrees at 28 knots, with gusts to 38 knots. After landing, the pilot attempted to exit the runway to the left at a taxiway, but the strong winds prevented the airplane from turning as intended. The pilot then began to turn the airplane back toward the runway. As the turn commenced, the wind lifted the left wing, causing the airplane to flip over to the right.

Outcome

The airplane came to rest in an inverted position with its nose pointing in the direction of the runway. The pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The aircraft sustained damage consistent with the inverted landing.

Additional Details

The flight was a cross-country with a planned refueling stop at the airport where the incident occurred. The pilot held a private pilot certificate. No other persons were involved, and no injuries were reported.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Jun 1991 Cessna 172M accident near Crescent City, CA?

A private pilot taxiing after landing at an intermediate refueling stop experienced a loss of control when strong winds lifted the left wing, flipping the airplane inverted. The sole occupant was not injured.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jun 1991 Cessna 172M accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Jun 1991 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N12447, operated by Duane Langeliers, at Crescent City, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO EMPLOY PROPER FLIGHT CONTROL POSITIONING TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE DURING TAXI.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17297. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.