Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The pilot attempted takeoff with crosswinds that were 60 degrees off of the runway heading at 24 knots, gusting to 34 knots. Unable to keep the airplane on the runway centerline, the pilot reportedly elected to exit the downwind side of the concrete runway onto the grass. As the airplane exited the runway's edge it nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position. The airplane's wings and vertical stabilizer sustained structural damage. There were no reported mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane's flight controls.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09CA237 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 5, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- North Little Rock, Arkansas
- Nearest airport
- North Little Rock Municipal (ORK)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-22-160
- N-number
- N9600D
- 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.