Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing flare, which resulted in a collision with terrain, and a nose over.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing flare in a left crosswind condition, he was "having trouble keeping the airplane straight." He reported that he intended on touching down with the left main landing gear first, but the airplane "rocked on the right" main landing gear. As a result, the right wing impacted the ground, and the airplane nosed over.
The pilot reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing, the fuselage, and the empennage.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA286 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 1, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Springfield, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Springfield Muni (8V7)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 170A
- N-number
- N9775A
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1950
- 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.