Probable cause
The pilot and airplane's inability to compensate for the unforecasted gusting wind conditions.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was taxiing into position for takeoff when a wind gust, reported by the tower, of 52 knots lifted the right wing of the airplane. The right wing continued to rotate the aircraft and move it to the left on the ramp. The pilot attempted to maintain control but was unsuccessful and the aircraft rolled inverted. The pilot was able to egress unassisted and was not injured. Weather forecast at the 40 minutes prior to the accident indicated forecast winds 250 degrees at 15 knots. At 7 minutes after the accident the updated weather observation showed winds from 260 degrees at 38 knots with gusts to 52 knots.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09CA181 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 26, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Broomfield, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Rocky Mountain Metropolitan (KBJC)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172N
- N-number
- N737KR
- 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.