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Takeoff Roll Gust Leads to Runway Excursion and Nose-Over

Erie, CO, United States

On January 20, 2013, a CESSNA 170B was involved in an aviation accident near Erie, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane while taking off in gusting wind conditions. 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

During takeoff roll on runway 15, a gust of wind from the left caused the airplane to depart the runway and nose over, coming to rest inverted. The vertical stabilizer and firewall sustained substantial damage.

Accident Details

During the takeoff roll from runway 15, the airplane encountered a gust of wind originating from the left side. This gust caused the airplane to depart the runway surface. Subsequently, the airplane nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position.

Damage

The accident resulted in substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and the firewall. No other damage items were reported.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to the accident. No further details regarding the pilot's statement were provided.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, the wind was recorded as 080 degrees at 14 knots, gusting to 22 knots. No other weather conditions were specified.

Contributing factors

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jan 2013 CESSNA 170B accident near Erie, CO?

During takeoff roll on runway 15, a gust of wind from the left caused the airplane to depart the runway and nose over, coming to rest inverted. The vertical stabilizer and firewall sustained substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Jan 2013 CESSNA 170B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jan 2013 involved a CESSNA 170B, at Erie, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane while taking off in gusting wind conditions.

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