Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in gusty wind conditions, which resulted in a runway excursion and substantial damage to the firewall.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing flare he encountered a gust of wind and then during the landing roll the airplane departed the runway to the left. During the runway excursion, the right main landing gear separated from the airplane, and the airplane skidded on dirt and rocks parallel to the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall.
A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located on the airport revealed that 5 minutes before the accident wind conditions were 310 degrees true at 3 knots. The airplane was landing on runway 33.
A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located on the airport revealed that 15 minutes after the accident wind conditions were 340 degrees true at 19 knots, gusting to 26 knots.
The pilot reported there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA337 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 9, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Buena Vista, Colorado
- Nearest airport
- Central Colorado Rgnl (AEJ)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna T210
- N-number
- N9915Y
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1982
- 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.