Casualties unknown

Tailwheel Airplane Destroyed by Postcrash Fire During Off-Airport Takeoff (N1560C)

Skwentna, AK, US

On August 25, 2007, a Cessna 180 (registration N1560C) was involved in an aviation accident near Skwentna, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions during takeoff initial climb, which resulted in the airplane descending uncontrolled into high vegetation. Factors contributing to the accident were wind gusts and a crosswind. 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 private pilot reported that a gust caught the left wing during takeoff from an unimproved site, causing the airplane to impact ground and roll onto its left side. The airplane was destroyed by postcrash fire.

Accident Summary

A private certificated pilot was conducting a takeoff from an unimproved, off-airport location in a tailwheel-equipped airplane under Title 14, CFR Part 91. The airplane impacted the ground, rolled onto its left side, and was subsequently destroyed by a postcrash fire.

Pilot Report

According to the pilot, the takeoff was performed in gusty crosswind conditions. He reported that a gust "caught the left wing pushing me to the ground." Additionally, the right landing gear wheel caught in brush, which pulled the airplane to the ground. The sequence of events led to the airplane impacting the terrain and overturning.

Aircraft Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage from the impact and the ensuing fire. The postcrash fire consumed the aircraft, resulting in its destruction.

Additional Information

No further details regarding injuries, aircraft registration, or specific location were reported in the available information. The investigation is ongoing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Aug 2007 Cessna 180 accident near Skwentna, AK?

A private pilot reported that a gust caught the left wing during takeoff from an unimproved site, causing the airplane to impact ground and roll onto its left side. The airplane was destroyed by postcrash fire.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Aug 2007 involved a Cessna 180, registration N1560C, at Skwentna, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions during takeoff initial climb, which resulted in the airplane descending uncontrolled into high vegetation. Factors contributing to the accident were wind gusts and a crosswind.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070920X01420. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.