CESSNA R172E near Denver, CO — 2012-02-27

Probable cause

The pilot's improper decision to taxi in wind conditions that exceeded the airplane’s capability.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was taxiing for takeoff in wind that greatly exceeded the airplane manufacturer's maximum demonstrated crosswind component and the airplane operator's wind limits. During the taxi, which was along a taxiway that was subject to an almost direct crosswind, the wind lifted the airplane’s tail upward, and the airplane nosed over.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Loss of control

First missed decision gate

Pilot could have aborted taxi due to high crosswinds exceeding safe limits.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control on ground · Taxi-to runway
• Decision Making / Judgment

Evidence available

• 5 docket documents

Docket documents5

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Airport Diagram - FTGother
• Excerpt Page from Rocky Mountain USAF Flight Training Center SOPother
• Flight Planother
• Weather Reports and Records - FTG Metarsreport

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