No fatalities

Wind Gust During Flare Leads to Runway Excursion and Rollover (N8224A)

Ontario, OR, US

On May 10, 1997, a Cessna 170B (registration N8224A) was involved in an aviation accident near Ontario, OR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to adequately compensate for the wind conditions. A factor contributing to the accident was gusting winds. 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

A pilot reported that a wind gust during flare for a three-point landing lifted the left wing, causing the tail to veer right. The airplane departed the runway, collapsing the right main gear and flipping onto its right side.

Accident Summary

During a landing attempt on runway 14, the pilot was flaring for a three-point, full-stall touchdown when the airplane encountered a gust of wind. According to the pilot's statement, the gust lifted the left wing, causing the tail to swing to the right. The pilot attempted to maintain directional control but was unsuccessful.

Sequence of Events

As the airplane veered off the runway, the right main landing gear collapsed upon encountering rough terrain. Subsequently, the right wing struck the ground, and the airplane flipped over onto its right side. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical deficiencies.

Investigation Notes

The event involved only the pilot's account, which attributed the loss of control to a wind gust during the flare. No mechanical issues were identified as contributing to the accident. The aircraft sustained damage to the right main landing gear and right wing structure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 May 1997 Cessna 170B accident near Ontario, OR?

A pilot reported that a wind gust during flare for a three-point landing lifted the left wing, causing the tail to veer right. The airplane departed the runway, collapsing the right main gear and flipping onto its right side.

Were there any fatalities in the 10 May 1997 Cessna 170B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 May 1997 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N8224A, at Ontario, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to adequately compensate for the wind conditions. A factor contributing to the accident was gusting winds.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08021. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.