Probable cause
The pilot's loss of control during landing after encountering an unexpected wind gust.
NTSB analysis
While practicing landings, the sport pilot performed a three-point, full-flap landing on the runway. During the landing roll, an unexpected wind gust knocked the tail wheel out of its detent and the pilot was unable to maintain directional control of the airplane. The airplane ground looped and sustained substantial damage to the right wing, right aileron, and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane before the accident. The pilot and the flight instructor reported the wind was about 3 to 4 knots down the runway, with dust devils crossing the runway.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12CA641 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 10, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Ft. Morgan, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Ft Morgan Municipal (KFMM)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dawn
Piper PA-11
- N-number
- N4589M
- 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.