N3718F

Substantial
None

CESSNA 172HS/N: 17255213

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, January 23, 2010
NTSB Number
ANC10CA015
Location
Nightmute, AK
Event ID
20100128X74138
Coordinates
60.470832, -164.700836
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane in a strong gusting wind, and his decision to taxi for takeoff in such conditions.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N3718F
Make
CESSNA
Serial Number
17255213
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1966
Model / ICAO
172HC172
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
TWOHY TIMOTHY D
Address
PO BOX 243141
Status
Deregistered
City
ANCHORAGE
State / Zip Code
AK 99524-3141
Country
United States

Analysis

According to the pilot, while taxiing for departure to runway 3, the airplane encountered a wind gust from the left. The wind gust lifted the left wing, the airplane turned 180 degrees, and traveled down a 20 to 40 foot embankment. The airplane came to rest inverted and sustained substantial damage. Examination of the airplane showed damage to the left wing, vertical stabilizer, and empennage. The pilot estimated the wind speed at 45 knots.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC10CA015