Probable cause
The noncertificated pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing, which resulted in a runway excursion.
NTSB analysis
The noncertificated pilot reported that, while he was taxiing to test the brakes, the airplane slid to the right, impacted a snowbank, and nosed over. He added that "this was not a flight, takeoff or landing. Simply went off [the] runway during a taxi test of [the] brakes."
However, in a statement provided by the Sheriff's office to the Federal Aviation Administration, the pilot stated that he was low on fuel and that, after he landed, he hit a snowdrift and nosed over.
The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA100 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 23, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Warren, Minnesota
- Nearest airport
- Warren Muni (D37)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Night
Cessna 150
- N-number
- N7961F
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1966
- 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.