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Pilot Aborts Takeoff on Short Sod Strip Due to Wind Shift, Resulting in Ground Loop (N731GX)

Risco, MO, US

On June 16, 1992, a Cessna 188B (registration N731GX) operated by Risco AG Service Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Risco, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during an aborted takeoff following a change in wind direction, which resulted in a ground loop and collision with terrain. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot aborted a takeoff attempt on a 2,500-foot sod runway after wind direction changed from crosswind to quartering tailwind. The aircraft ground looped left, causing the right wing to strike terrain.

What happened

The pilot of the accident airplane reported that he was attempting to takeoff from a 2,500-foot-long sod landing strip. During the ground run, the wind direction shifted from a direct crosswind to a quartering tailwind. Because of this change in wind conditions, the pilot elected to abort the takeoff.

During the aborted takeoff sequence, the airplane ground looped to the left. As a result of this maneuver, the right wing collided with terrain.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the aborted takeoff and the subsequent loss of directional control. Examination of the event revealed that the pilot's decision to abort was driven by the unexpected change in wind direction during the critical phase of flight.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during an aborted takeoff following a change in wind direction, which resulted in a ground loop and collision with terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jun 1992 Cessna 188B accident near Risco, MO?

A pilot aborted a takeoff attempt on a 2,500-foot sod runway after wind direction changed from crosswind to quartering tailwind. The aircraft ground looped left, causing the right wing to strike terrain.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jun 1992 involved a Cessna 188B, registration N731GX, operated by Risco AG Service Inc, at Risco, MO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during an aborted takeoff following a change in wind direction, which resulted in a ground loop and collision with terrain.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14786. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.