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Pilot Reports Wind Gust During Takeoff Leads to Runway Excursion and Damage

London, OH, United States

On October 19, 2009, a CESSNA 170B was involved in an aviation accident near London, OH. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported losing control during takeoff due to a strong wind gust, causing the airplane to veer off the runway, become briefly airborne over grass, and sustain damage when the left main landing gear collapsed after encountering a 'hole.'

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during the takeoff roll, a strong wind gust from the left caused a loss of control, resulting in the airplane veering off the runway. The airplane temporarily became airborne over the grass area adjacent to the runway. The pilot reduced engine power to idle. However, the airplane then encountered a "hole," which caused the left main landing gear to collapse.

Aircraft Damage

A post-accident inspection revealed that the left elevator had struck a Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) light. Additionally, the left wing sustained damage.

Pilot's Report

The pilot stated that there were no failures or malfunctions with the airplane prior to the accident.

Weather Conditions

Recorded winds in the vicinity of the accident airport were from the south at 6 knots. However, southerly winds with gusts to 16 knots had been recorded prior to the accident.

Contributing factors

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Oct 2009 CESSNA 170B accident near London, OH?

A pilot reported losing control during takeoff due to a strong wind gust, causing the airplane to veer off the runway, become briefly airborne over grass, and sustain damage when the left main landing gear collapsed after encountering a 'hole.'

Were there any fatalities in the 19 Oct 2009 CESSNA 170B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Oct 2009 involved a CESSNA 170B, at London, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.

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