Casualties unknown

Wind Gust Causes Loss of Control on Takeoff Roll (N577JL)

Borrego, CA, US

On August 10, 1997, an Aerospatiale TB-20 (registration N577JL) operated by Van Nuys Flight Center, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Borrego, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for the existing wind conditions and his subsequent failure to maintain runway alignment during the takeoff roll. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, a wind gust lifted the aircraft and caused a left yaw. The pilot reduced power, and the aircraft settled on soft ground, breaking the nose wheel and stopping the engine after propeller strike.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported an unexpected encounter with a forceful wind gust during the takeoff roll. The gust, originating from the northwest, momentarily lifted the aircraft from the runway and induced a left yaw. In response, the pilot cut engine power. The aircraft subsequently settled onto a soft shoulder adjacent to the runway.

Damage and Engine Failure

Upon contacting the soft ground, the nose wheel dug in and separated from the aircraft. The propeller then struck sand, causing the engine to cease operation. The pilot noted that the wind conditions at the time were variable, ranging from 230 to 250 degrees at 10 to 15 knots.

Pilot Actions

The pilot's immediate action to reduce power was a direct reaction to the loss of directional control. Despite this, the aircraft's momentum carried it off the runway surface, resulting in the damage described.

Conclusion

No further information is available from the source. The sequence of events is documented as reported by the pilot.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08674. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.