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Pilot Encounters Crosswind During Grass Strip Landing, Aircraft Noses Over (N7030K)

Hayden, CO, US

On September 3, 2004, a Piper PA-20 (registration N7030K) was involved in an aviation accident near Hayden, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during landing. Contributing factors include the excessive crosswind component, and the gusty 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

A pilot experienced a strong crosswind while attempting to land on a grass strip, resulting in the airplane nosing over and substantial damage. Wind reports indicated gusty conditions.

Incident Overview

A pilot attempting to land on a grass strip encountered a strong crosswind, leading to the airplane nosing over and sustaining substantial damage. The pilot reported landing on a heading of 090 degrees.

Wind Conditions

According to the pilot, the estimated winds were from 180 degrees at 14 knots with gusts between 20 and 25 knots. Automated weather observations from Hayden, Colorado, located approximately 20 miles south of the grass strip, reported winds from 200 degrees at 19 knots with gusts to 30 knots. The calculated crosswind component during the landing attempt ranged between 18 and 28 knots.

Postaccident Examination

A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies that could have contributed to the event.

Conclusion

The pilot encountered a strong crosswind while landing on a grass strip, resulting in the airplane nosing over. No other factors were identified.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Sept 2004 Piper PA-20 accident near Hayden, CO?

A pilot experienced a strong crosswind while attempting to land on a grass strip, resulting in the airplane nosing over and substantial damage. Wind reports indicated gusty conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Sept 2004 Piper PA-20 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Sept 2004 involved a Piper PA-20, registration N7030K, at Hayden, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during landing. Contributing factors include the excessive crosswind component, and the gusty 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/20040908X01356. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.