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Aircraft Encounters Wind Gust During Taxi, Sustains Damage (N8178K)

Salt Lake City, UT, US

On May 10, 1998, a Stinson 108-1 (registration N8178K) was involved in an aviation accident near Salt Lake City, UT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for winds while taxing. A factor was gusty, high wind conditions. 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

While attempting to land at Salt Lake City #2 Airport, a pilot performed two go-arounds due to severe turbulence. After a successful third landing, a wind gust during taxi caused the left wingtip to strike the ground, resulting in a 360-degree turn and damage to multiple components.

Accident Sequence

En route to Salt Lake City #2 Airport, the pilot encountered severe wind turbulence. He attempted two landings, each followed by a go-around due to turbulence. The third landing attempt was successful. While taxiing to exit the runway, the aircraft encountered a gust of wind. The left wingtip struck the ground, causing the aircraft to turn 360 degrees and come to rest on the left wing and nose. As the pilot exited the aircraft, a wind gust overturned it.

Damage

The aircraft sustained damage to the left main landing gear and the vertical stabilizer. The right wing was broken at the wing brace, the nose was dented, and the propeller was bent.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, winds were reported at 20 to 25 knots, with gusts of 30 to 35 knots.

Weather

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 May 1998 Stinson 108-1 accident near Salt Lake City, UT?

While attempting to land at Salt Lake City #2 Airport, a pilot performed two go-arounds due to severe turbulence. After a successful third landing, a wind gust during taxi caused the left wingtip to strike the ground, resulting in a 360-degree turn and damage to multiple components.

Were there any fatalities in the 10 May 1998 Stinson 108-1 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 May 1998 involved a Stinson 108-1, registration N8178K, at Salt Lake City, UT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for winds while taxing. A factor was gusty, high wind conditions.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10068. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.