No fatalities

PIPER J3C-50 accident at Elbert, CO, 26 Jun 2023

Elbert, CO, United States

On June 26, 2023, a PIPER J3C-50 was involved in an aviation accident near Elbert, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff and subsequent excessive use of brakes which resulted in a nose-over. Contributing to the accident was his decision to takeoff downwind. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff and subsequent excessive use of brakes which resulted in a nose-over. Contributing to the accident was his decision to takeoff downwind.

— NTSB Determination

Contributing factors

Incorrect use/operationPilotContributed to outcome

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Jun 2023 PIPER J3C-50 accident near Elbert, CO?

The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff and subsequent excessive use of brakes which resulted in a nose-over. Contributing to the accident was his decision to takeoff downwind.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Jun 2023 PIPER J3C-50 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Jun 2023 involved a PIPER J3C-50, at Elbert, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff and subsequent excessive use of brakes which resulted in a nose-over. Contributing to the accident was his decision to takeoff downwind.