Probable cause
The pilot's incorrect use of brakes, which resulted in the airplane nosing over.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the departure roll the airplane was not performing as he had expected. He opted to abort the takeoff by aggressively applying brakes. The airplane nosed over, damaging the wings and tail section. The pilot stated that accident could have been prevented if he had "better control of braking." He further added that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR10CA043 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 1, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Mineral Canyon, Utah
- Nearest airport
- Mineral Canyon Strip Airport (UT75)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 120
- N-number
- N2729N
- 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.