N8178K

On May 10, 1998, at 1450 mountain daylight time, a Stinson 108-1, N8178K, sustained substantial damage when it nosed over during landing roll at Salt Lake City #2 Airport. The private pilot and sole occupant received minor injuries. The cross-country flight originated at Tooele, Utah, and was operating under Title 14 CFR Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed.

According to the pilot, while en route to Salt Lake City #2 Airport, he encountered severe wind and turbulence. He attempted 2 landings at the airport, and performed a go-around each time due to turbulence. He was successful on his third attempt to land, but while taxiing to exit the runway, the aircraft encountered a gust of wind. The left wingtip struck the ground, causing the aircraft to turn 360 degrees, and come to rest on the left wing and nose. The pilot exited the aircraft, and another wind gust then caused the aircraft to nose over.

According to the Salt Lake City Police Department's incident report, the aircraft sustained damage to the left main landing gear and the vertical stabilizer. Additionally, the right wing was broken at the wing brace, the nose was dented, and the propeller was bent. The report stated that, at the time of the accident, the winds were reported at 20 to 25 knots, with gusts 30 to 35 knots.