Probable cause
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.
NTSB 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.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC10CA015 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 23, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Nightmute, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Nightmute Airport (AGT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172H
- N-number
- N3718F
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.