Casualties unknown

Loss of Control During Landing Roll After Tail Lifted by Gust (N1207Q)

Ennis, MT, US

On August 13, 1992, a Cessna A185F (registration N1207Q) operated by Singleton, James L. was involved in an aviation accident near Ennis, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WAS NOT MAINTAINED. FACTORS TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: A LOOSE GRAVEL AIRSTRIP, WIND GUSTS AND INADEQUATE REMEDIAL ACTION. 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

During the landing roll on a private gravel airstrip, a gust of wind raised the airplane's tail. When the tail lowered, the airplane veered right and slid sideways. The pilot could not maintain control, and the left wing contacted the surface.

Incident Overview

At the conclusion of a cross-country flight, the pilot executed a normal approach and landing on a private gravel airstrip. During the landing roll, a gust of wind lifted the airplane's tail. As the tail returned to its normal position, the airplane began to veer to the right and slide sideways. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation but was unable to maintain directional control. The airplane continued its rightward movement, and the left wing ultimately made contact with the ground surface.

Sequence of Events

The landing had been routine until the gust occurred. The tail's rise and subsequent descent initiated an uncommanded right turn. Despite the pilot's corrective inputs, the airplane continued to veer and slide laterally. The left wing's contact with the gravel surface marked the end of the landing rollout.

Post-Incident Information

The source provides no further details regarding aircraft damage, injuries, or environmental conditions beyond the presence of a gust of wind. No probable cause is stated in the investigation source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Aug 1992 Cessna A185F accident near Ennis, MT?

During the landing roll on a private gravel airstrip, a gust of wind raised the airplane's tail. When the tail lowered, the airplane veered right and slid sideways. The pilot could not maintain control, and the left wing contacted the surface.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Aug 1992 involved a Cessna A185F, registration N1207Q, operated by Singleton, James L., at Ennis, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WAS NOT MAINTAINED. FACTORS TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: A LOOSE GRAVEL AIRSTRIP, WIND GUSTS AND INADEQUATE REMEDIAL ACTION.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15536. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.