Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while taking off with a gusting wind.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, during takeoff from a snow-covered runway at a private airstrip, the airplane encountered a wind gust before striking a fence on the east side of the runway. The pilot elected to continue the takeoff and the airplane landed uneventfully at another airport approximately 5 miles from the private airstrip. The pilot reported that the wind was from 270 degrees at 10 knots and gusting to 15 knots. Examination of the airplane revealed the outboard 8 to 10 inches of the left stabilator was separated.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11CA123 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 7, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Seymour, Indiana
- Nearest airport
- Aerobatic Practice Airport (45IN)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Night, dark
Cessna 177B
- N-number
- N888VM
- 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.