On July 22, 1991, a Cessna 172N (registration N733BX) operated by Aurora Airpark, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Watkins, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to account for a 15-knot tailwind during landing, which resulted in an excessive ground speed and runway overrun. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot attempted to land with full flaps unaware of a 15-knot tailwind, resulting in a runway overrun and aircraft overturning after striking a ditch.
What happened
The pilot initiated the landing sequence with 40 degrees of flaps deployed. Unbeknownst to the pilot, the aircraft was encountering a 15-knot tailwind during the approach. Observers noted the airplane crossing midfield at an altitude of 100 feet above ground level. The aircraft touched down on the runway approximately 100 to 200 yards from the end of the paved surface.
Upon touchdown, the pilot immediately locked the brakes in an attempt to stop the aircraft. However, the combination of the tailwind and braking action proved insufficient. The airplane continued past the runway threshold, departed the paved surface, struck a ditch, and subsequently overturned.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to account for a 15-knot tailwind during landing, which resulted in an excessive ground speed and runway overrun.
What happened in the 22 Jul 1991 Cessna 172N accident near Watkins, CO?
A pilot attempted to land with full flaps unaware of a 15-knot tailwind, resulting in a runway overrun and aircraft overturning after striking a ditch.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Jul 1991 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N733BX, operated by Aurora Airpark, Inc., at Watkins, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to account for a 15-knot tailwind during landing, which resulted in an excessive ground speed and runway overrun.
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