Casualties unknown

1999-05-04: Piper J3C-65 (N6563H) — The Pilot Center — Fort Collins, CO

Fort Collins, CO, US

On May 4, 1999, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N6563H) operated by The Pilot Center was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Collins, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions. A factor was the gusty wind conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

While performing a 360-degree turn to check for traffic before taxiing onto the active runway, a strong wind gust lifted the tail, causing the airplane to nose down and then nose over onto its back.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during pre-takeoff procedures, the wind was from 290 degrees at 10 knots with gusts to 20 knots 'or less.' After completing the pre-takeoff checklist, the pilot executed a 360-degree turn to check for traffic before taxiing onto the active runway.

Sequence of Events

When the airplane had made a 180-degree turn, placing the tail directly into the wind, an 'unexpected strong gust of wind' lifted the tail, causing the airplane to nose down. A subsequent wind gust then caused the airplane to nose over onto its back.

Pilot's Report

The pilot noted the wind conditions and the unexpected gust during the turn. No further details were provided regarding aircraft damage or pilot injuries.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18744. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.