1999-09-18: Cessna 180 — Palmer, AK

Casualties unknown • Palmer, AK, US

Probable cause

The pilot's choice of unsuitable terrain for taxi, and inadequate compensation for high winds. Factors associated with this accident were the muddy ground, and the winds of 25 knots gusting to 40 knots.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot was taxiing the airplane after landing on a gravel and clay bar the second time that day. He said the ground was soft and muddy, so he kept the airplane moving so it would not become stuck. The wheels bogged down during the taxi, the airplane nosed down, and the wind carried the airplane over onto its back. The vertical stabilizer and the right wing outboard of the lift strut sustained substantial damage. The pilot said the visibility was 5 miles in rain, and the winds had increased from the first trip, and were 25 knots, with gusts to 40 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-09-18 Cessna 180 accident near Palmer, AK?

The pilot was taxiing the airplane after landing on a gravel and clay bar the second time that day. He said the ground was soft and muddy, so he kept the airplane moving so it would not become stuck. The wheels bogged down during the taxi, the airplane nosed down, and the wind carried the airplane over onto its back.…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-09-18 involved a Cessna 180, registration N2294C, at Palmer, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's choice of unsuitable terrain for taxi, and inadequate compensation for high winds. Factors associated with this accident were the muddy ground, and the winds of 25 knots gusting to 40 knots.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19683. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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