On March 19, 1993, a Cessna 182F (registration N3211U) operated by James N. Fordemwalt was involved in an aviation accident near Chandler, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE WEATHER EVALUATION RESULTING IN AN INADVERTENT ENCOUNTER WITH GUSTY WIND CONDITIONS WHILE TAXIING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot performing night practice takeoffs and landings reported that a sudden strong gust of wind blew the aircraft onto its back while taxiing. Ground witnesses observed isolated thunderstorm activity in the area.
Event Details
A pilot arrived at the airport intending to conduct night practice takeoffs and landings. According to the pilot, weather conditions throughout the day had been normal, and winds at the airport were calm upon arrival. During the downwind and base legs of the first traffic pattern, the pilot observed dust being kicked up to the north and east of the airport. The first sign of turbulence occurred on final approach, and during the landing roll-out the pilot became aware of gusty surface winds, leading to a decision to terminate the flight. After landing, while taxiing to the parking spot, a sudden and very strong gust of wind blew the aircraft over onto its back.
Witness Observations
Ground witnesses at the airport reported observing isolated thunderstorm activity in the general area. They stated that at the time of the accident, a strong gust of wind swept over the airport.
What happened in the 19 Mar 1993 Cessna 182F accident near Chandler, AZ?
A pilot performing night practice takeoffs and landings reported that a sudden strong gust of wind blew the aircraft onto its back while taxiing. Ground witnesses observed isolated thunderstorm activity in the area.
Were there any fatalities in the 19 Mar 1993 Cessna 182F accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Mar 1993 involved a Cessna 182F, registration N3211U, operated by James N. Fordemwalt, at Chandler, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE WEATHER EVALUATION RESULTING IN AN INADVERTENT ENCOUNTER WITH GUSTY WIND CONDITIONS WHILE TAXIING.
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