On April 11, 2007, a Cessna 180C (registration N9253T) operated by John L. Ranweiler was involved in an aviation accident near Santa FE, NM. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Exceeding the airplane's maximum demonstrated crosswind component during the takeoff roll. A contributing factor was the crosswind. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff on runway 02, the airplane weathervaned left, causing the right wing tip to contact the runway. The airplane nosed over, the propeller struck, and damage occurred to the wing, aileron, and cowling. Wind was from 320 degrees at 11 knots, with a computed crosswind component of 13 knots.
Accident Summary
According to the pilot, during takeoff on runway 02, the airplane weathervaned to the left. The right wing tip contacted the runway, and the airplane nosed over. The propeller subsequently struck the runway.
Damage
The accident resulted in bent right wing rear spar and aileron, as well as a buckled engine cowling.
Wind Conditions
SAF wind was reported from 320 degrees at 11 knots. The computed crosswind component at the time was 13 knots, with a headwind component of 8 knots.
Aircraft Information
The Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) for the 1960 Cessna 180C does not provide a maximum demonstrated crosswind component. In contrast, the 1977 Cessna 180K POH lists the maximum demonstrated crosswind component as 12 knots. An examination of the airplane's systems conducted by the FAA revealed no anomalies.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 11 Apr 2007 Cessna 180C accident near Santa FE, NM?
During takeoff on runway 02, the airplane weathervaned left, causing the right wing tip to contact the runway. The airplane nosed over, the propeller struck, and damage occurred to the wing, aileron, and cowling. Wind was from 320 degrees at 11 knots, with a computed crosswind component of 13 knots.
Were there any fatalities in the 11 Apr 2007 Cessna 180C accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Apr 2007 involved a Cessna 180C, registration N9253T, operated by John L. Ranweiler, at Santa FE, NM.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Exceeding the airplane's maximum demonstrated crosswind component during the takeoff roll. A contributing factor was the crosswind.