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GPS Navigation Error Leads to Precautionary Landing and Ground Loop on Gravel Road (N6695K)

Antonito, CO, US

On May 24, 1994, a Schweizer G-164B (registration N6695K) was involved in an aviation accident near Antonito, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS. A FACTOR WAS THE GUSTY CROSSWIND AND THE PILOT INADVERTENTLY BECOMING LOST. 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

Pilot, after refueling in Trinidad, Colorado, attempted to navigate to Center using GPS. When GPS indicated arrival, airport was not found. With insufficient fuel, a precautionary landing on a gravel road resulted in a wind gust causing a ground loop and damage.

Flight and Navigation

The pilot refueled the airplane in Trinidad, Colorado, and programmed the Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver for a flight to Center, Colorado. After departure, the GPS radio performed accurately throughout the flight. However, when the GPS indicated that the airplane had arrived at Center, the pilot was unable to locate the airport.

Precautionary Landing

With insufficient fuel remaining to fly to another airport, the pilot decided to make a precautionary landing on a gravel road. The road was oriented south-southwest, and the wind was from the south at 15 miles per hour with gusts to 25 miles per hour.

Accident Sequence

During the landing roll, a wind gust caused the airplane to drift off the right side of the road. The right main landing gear struck a large rock and was torn off. The airplane then ground-looped to the right and came to rest on its nose and left wing tip. The accident site was located approximately 50 miles south of Center and 80 miles west of Trinidad. The pilot reported departing Trinidad with 80 gallons of fuel and stated he was unfamiliar with the area.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 May 1994 Schweizer G-164B accident near Antonito, CO?

Pilot, after refueling in Trinidad, Colorado, attempted to navigate to Center using GPS. When GPS indicated arrival, airport was not found. With insufficient fuel, a precautionary landing on a gravel road resulted in a wind gust causing a ground loop and damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 May 1994 Schweizer G-164B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 May 1994 involved a Schweizer G-164B, registration N6695K, at Antonito, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S IMPROPER COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS. A FACTOR WAS THE GUSTY CROSSWIND AND THE PILOT INADVERTENTLY BECOMING LOST.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01301. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.