No fatalities

Airplane Noses Over During Takeoff from Grass Runway

Manvel, TX, United States

On April 8, 2013, a CESSNA 172 was involved in an aviation accident near Manvel, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control 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 from a grass runway, an airplane encountered a gust of wind, became airborne, skipped several times, then nosed over and came to rest inverted, sustaining substantial damage.

Accident Overview

During the takeoff roll from grass runway 02, the airplane encountered a gust of wind. The airplane became airborne briefly, then touched down and "skipped" several times before it nosed over and came to rest inverted. Both wings and the vertical stabilizer were substantially damaged.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, the nearest facility recorded wind from 150 degrees at 9 knots, gusting to 16 knots.

Damage

The accident resulted in substantial damage to both wings and the vertical stabilizer.

Investigation

The investigation confirmed the sequence of events as described. No specific cause has been determined based on the available information.

Contributing factors

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Apr 2013 CESSNA 172 accident near Manvel, TX?

During takeoff from a grass runway, an airplane encountered a gust of wind, became airborne, skipped several times, then nosed over and came to rest inverted, sustaining substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Apr 2013 CESSNA 172 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Apr 2013 involved a CESSNA 172, at Manvel, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

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