Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Flight from Portland International Airport (KPDX) to Santa Barbara returns over mechanical issues

PORTLAND, Ore. -- A SkyWest flight that left Portland Tuesday afternoon quickly returned for an emergency landing.

The plane left PDX for Santa Barbara around 1 p.m. and returned about 40 minutes later due to mechanical issues.

A spokesperson for SkyWest said all 70 passengers got off the plane safely and are already en route to Santa Barbara in a new plane.

Source:  http://katu.com

Siai-Marchetti SM 1019, N421EB: Incident occurred May 31, 2016 in Rindge, Cheshire County, New Hampshire

Date: 01-JUN-16
Time: 00:30:00Z
Regis#: N421EB
Aircraft Make: SIAI MARCHETTI
Aircraft Model: SM1019
Event Type: Incident
Highest Injury: None
Damage: Unknown
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
FAA Flight Standards District Office:  FAA Portland FSDO-65
City: RINDGE
State: New Hampshire

AIRCRAFT ON LANDING ON A LAKE, BOUNCED AND FLIPPED OVER, LAKE MONONAC, RINDGE, NEW HAMPSHIRE.
  
http://registry.faa.gov/N421EB



RINDGE, N.H. —A seaplane crashed in the area of Conifer Road in Rindge on Tuesday night around 8:30.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, a Siai-Marchetti SM 1019 Experimental Amphibian aircraft landed on Lake Monomonac in Rindge.

The aircraft flipped over and there are no reported injuries. The FAA will investigate the incident.


According to the FAA's website, the plane is registered to Earl J. Robertson of Rindge.


Southwestern New Hampshire Fire Mutual Aid confirmed that they were assisting at the scene.


Source:  http://www.wcvb.com





RINDGE, N.H. (WHDH) — A small plane crashed into a lake in New Hampshire Tuesday evening.

The FAA said the experimental aircraft crashed into Lake Monomonac at around 8:30 p.m. Officials said the plane was trying to land on the lake when it flipped over.

People were on the plane at the time of the crash but no injuries have been reported.

Source:  http://whdh.com 




RINDGE, NH (CBS) – A small plane flipped over while landing on Lake Monomonac in Rindge, New Hampshire on Tuesday night.

The Fire Chief says two men on board got out of the water and suffered only minor injuries.

When the plane flipped, 40 gallons of fuel spilled into the lake. 

The FAA says it will investigate what caused the Siai-Marchetti SM 1019 Experimental Amphibian aircraft to flip over.

The plane will be removed from the lake on Wednesday.

Source:  http://boston.cbslocal.com

Severe weather forces flight diversions to Tulsa, Oklahoma

TULSA, Oklahoma  — an Airlines flights from across the U.S. have been diverted to Tulsa International Airport while they wait for severe weather to pass through Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.

Tulsa International Airport’s main commercial runway is able to accommodate aircraft sizes up to a Boeing 747 making Tulsa International Airport ideal to land large airliners.

Plane being diverted range in size from MD-80, Boeing 737, Airbus A319, Airbus A321 and a Boeing 777-200ER.

The planes come from as far away as London-Heathrow, Los Angeles (LAX), John Wayne Santa Ana, Baltimore-Washington International Airport and Denver International Airport.

Southwest Airlines is also diverting some Boeing 737s to Tulsa because of bad weather conditions at Dallas Love Field.

According to FlightAware, one of the planes is an Alaska Boeing 737 from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Source:  http://www.fox23.com

Incident occurred May 31, 2016 at Albany International Airport (KALB), Colonie, Albany County, New York

COLONIE - Albany Int'l Airport spokesman confirms that a small plane went off a runway.

Doug Myers from the Albany Airport says that a single-engine private aircraft rolled off Runway-28 after it had just landed.


The pilot says that the left wheel brake locked up, turning the aircraft into the grass.


The plane taxied back onto a taxiway under its own power and was escorted by the Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Department to a nearby hangar, says Myers


The Albany County Sheriff's Office confirms that it was a small single person plane that was taxiing to prepare for take off when it veered into the grass.


The incident happened just after 2:00.


The airport was closed briefly to all traffic while emergency equipment responded to the scene.


Story and video:  http://cbs6albany.com





ALBANY, New York — Albany International Airport has reopened after being closed briefly when a small plane rolled off a runway on landing.

Airport authorities say the single-engine aircraft inbound from Indianapolis veered off the runway just before 2 p.m. Tuesday. They say the pilot, who was alone onboard, believes a wheel brake locked and caused the plane to turn onto grass lining the runway.

The airport was shut down for a short time as emergency crews were sent to check the plane and pilot.

The pilot wasn't hurt and was able to taxi to a hangar.

Incident occurred May 31, 2016 at Perdido Winds Airpark (AL08), Elberta, Baldwin County, Alabama


A small aircraft has crashed in Baldwin County. 

At about 11:00am, the pilot clipped some trees while trying to take off from the Perdido Winds Airpark… that’s near Frank Road in Elberta. 

The plane then went down in a wooded area.

Luckily, the pilot walked away from the accident with only a knot on his forehead.

Story and video:  http://wkrg.com



ELBERTA, AL (WALA) -    The Baldwin County Sheriff's office confirmed the crash of a small aircraft following engine failure on Tuesday.

Officials say the pilot refused medical care and walked away from the crash with just a knot on his head.

The Elberta Police Department says the 911 call came in around 10:45 Tuesday morning. 

Elberta Police, the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office, and the Elberta Fire Department responded.

The crash happened near County Road 95 and Frank Road on private property. 

According to a sign on the property, the airstrip is the "Perdido Winds Air Park."

The Elberta police chief says the plane was hanging from some of the trees.

 The chief says the pilot told officials his engine went out while he was practicing touch and go landings.

The investigation is now in the hands of the Federal Aviation Administration. 

A spokesman said the FAA would wait on more information from local law enforcement before sending an investigator to the scene. 

Original article can be found here: http://www.wtvm.com



ELBERTA, Ala. (WEAR) — Channel 3 News is on scene of a plane crash in Baldwin County.

Authorities tell us the pilot, who authorities have not identified, was practicing touch-and-go landing at small air strip and crashed the small plane into trees.

Emergency crews responded to Frank Road, just off County Road 95, around 10:45 a.m. Tuesday.

The pilot was not hurt.

At this time authorities have not released additional details. 

Original article can be found here: http://weartv.com

Cessna 150H, N7196S: Incident occurred May 30, 2016 near Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (KGPT), Gulfport, Harrison County, Mississippi

Date: 30-MAY-16
Time: 17:45:00Z
Regis#: N7196S
Aircraft Make: CESSNA
Aircraft Model: 150
Event Type: Incident
Highest Injury: None
Damage: Unknown
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
FAA Flight Standards District Office: FAA Jackson FSDO-31
City: OCEAN SPRINGS
State: Mississippi

AIRCRAFT FORCE LANDED ON A HIGHWAY, NEAR OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI.

http://registry.faa.gov/N7196S





JACKSON COUNTY, MS (WLOX) -

A pilot and his passenger are safe on the ground after an emergency landing put them on Interstate 10. According to the pilot, an engine failure was to blame for turning I-10 into a temporary landing strip.

Private pilot Rodney McKnight, Jr. said he took off from Auburn, Alabama, flying a Cessna 150 with the owner sitting in the passenger seat. His original destination was Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport. That changed once the engine stopped at 3,500 feet.

"While I'm flying, I'm troubleshooting trying to figure out what it is, what's going on. Maybe it's my fault? Something I touched? Something like that? But nope, turned out the engine just wasn't putting out its power," said McKnight.

So, McKnight said his first thought was safety. Safety for him and his passenger, and safety for those on the ground. He had to figure out where he could land. He was hoping for Mobile.

"I said Gulfport, I don't think I'm going to make Mobile. I'm going to put this thing down on the road. And they go, 'Are you declaring an emergency?' And that's when I went back to Gulfport and said, 'Affirmative. I'm declaring an emergency,'" McKnight recalled.

From that point, McKnight said his skills as a pilot were tested to the extreme. But, he was relying on more than just himself to land safely.

"Let's just hope that the people in the cars can see what's happening and then adjust their actions accordingly," he said.

According to McKnight, the plane still had enough lift to coast safely to the edge of the interstate without incident.

"Dodging light poles and power lines. Traffic was worked out to where I could land in front of and behind cars. It worked out perfectly," said McKnight.

Sarah Washburn was driving on I-10 when she spotted the plane flying down low in front of her. Washburn is from Texas where it's crop dusting season, so low flying planes aren't an unusual sight to her. What caught her attention was how the pilot moved the plane’s wings.

"He started going up and down, up and down like I need to land instead of flipping back around and turning around.  So it kind of gave all of us a heads up to all us cars, and we all started putting on our brakes," Washburn recalled.

"So then he kind of landed about five cars in front of us, and we’re all still going like 20-30 miles per hour. Everybody put their hazard lights on and slowed down to almost his speed when he hit the highway blacktop and bounced a little bit, and then headed off to the right of the shoulder. Just landed that thing just perfect... I was pretty proud of him."

Not only was the plane's landing flawless, none of the vehicles on the road had a problem getting out of the way. It's a happy ending, and an exciting start to Washburn's vacation. She kept driving, headed to Florida.

"We were just coming on, crossing the state line and I saw wow, Mississippi was crazy. I wonder what Alabama has got next? How are they going to top that?" Washburn laughed.

According to Rodney McKnight Jr's Linkedin page, he's employed as a Ground Instructor at MzeroA.com. Even the shirt he was wearing Monday seemed to have a prophetic message. It read, "Keep calm and land on the centerline."

Story and video:  http://www.wlox.com

Piper PA-23-250, N62654: Incident occurred May 30, 2016 in Panama City, Bay County, Florida

Date: 30-MAY-16
Time: 04:52:00Z
Regis#: N62654
Aircraft Make: PIPER
Aircraft Model: PA23
Event Type: Incident
Highest Injury: None
Damage: Unknown
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
FAA Flight Standards District Office: FAA Birmingham FSDO-09
City: PANAMA CITY
State: Florida

AIRCRAFT LANDED WITH GEAR RETRACTED, PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA.

http://registry.faa.gov/N62654

Unregistered powered parachute: Incident occurred May 30, 2016 in Sewal, Wayne County, Iowa

Date: 30-MAY-16
Time: 17:00:00Z
Regis#: UNREGISTERED
Event Type: Incident
Highest Injury: Serious
Damage: Minor
Flight Phase: TAKEOFF (TOF)
FAA Flight Standards District Office: FAA Des Moines FSDO-61
City: SEWAL
State: Iowa

UNREGISTERED POWERED PARACHUTE CRASHED ON TAKEOFF, SEWEL, IOWA.

Air Tractor Inc AT-502, Coco Aviation LLC, N7315L: Incident occurred May 30, 2016 in Gueydan, Vermilion Parish, Louisiana

Date: 30-MAY-16
Time: 19:00:00Z
Regis#: N7315L
Aircraft Make: AIR TRACTOR
Aircraft Model: AT502
Event Type: Incident
Highest Injury: None
Damage: Minor
Activity: Aerial Application
Flight Phase: UNKNOWN (UNK)
FAA Flight Standards District Office: FAA Baton Rouge FSDO-03
City: GUEYDAN
State: Louisiana

AIRCRAFT DURING AERIAL APPLICATION, STRUCK A POWERLINE AND FORCE LANDED, NEAR GUEYDAN, LOUISIANA.

COCO AVIATION LLC:   http://registry.faa.gov/N7315L

Beechcraft Baron 58, Moreys Piers Aviation LLC, N517MP: Incident occurred May 30, 2016 at Cape May County Airport (KWWD), Wildwood, New Jersey

Date: 30-MAY-16
Time: 20:07:00Z
Regis#: N517MP
Aircraft Make: BEECH
Aircraft Model: 58
Event Type: Incident
Highest Injury: None
Damage: Unknown
Flight Phase: TAKEOFF (TOF)
FAA Flight Standards District Office: FAA Philadelphia FSDO-17
City: WILDWOOD
State: New Jersey

AIRCRAFT ON A REJECTED TAKEOFF, OVERSHOT THE RUNWAY AND WENT INTO THE GRASS, WILDWOOD, NEW JERSEY 

MOREYS PIERS AVIATION LLC: http://registry.faa.gov/N517MP

Pitts S-1C Special, N95R: Accident occurred May 29, 2016 at Cavern City Air Terminal (KCNM), Carlsbad, Eddy County, New Mexico

The National Transportation Safety Board did not travel to the scene of this accident.

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Lubbock, Texas

Aviation Accident Factual Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

http://registry.faa.gov/N95R

NTSB Identification: CEN16LA202
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, May 29, 2016 in Carlsbad, NM
Aircraft: Harry Oas Pitts S1C, registration: N95R
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

NTSB investigators may not have traveled in support of this investigation and used data provided by various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.

On May 29, 2016, about 1100 mountain daylight time, an experimental, amateur-built Harry Oas Pitts S1C airplane, N95R, was substantially damaged when it nosed over following a runway excursion during landing on runway 14L (4,616 feet by 150 feet, asphalt) at the Cavern City Air Terminal (CNM), Carlsbad, New Mexico. The pilot was not injured. The airplane was registered to and operated by private individuals under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight, which was not operated on a flight plan. The flight originated from the Big Spring McMahon-Wrinkle Airport (BPG), Big Spring, Texas, at about 0935.

The pilot reported that the prevailing wind was from 160 degrees at 8 knots while on approach to runway 14L at CNM. The approach and touchdown were without incident; however, as the airplane slowed, a "slight" left turn developed. Right rudder and brake inputs were not effective. The left turn continued until the airplane departed the runway pavement. The right wing subsequently struck the ground and the airplane nosed over.

Examination of the runway environment revealed a skid mark beginning left of the centerline and gradually curving toward the left side of the pavement. The mark appeared to have been associated with the left main landing gear tire. There did not appear to be any skid marks associated with the right main landing gear tire.

A postaccident examination was conducted by a local mechanic on behalf of the NTSB. Flight control continuity was confirmed and each control surface exhibited freedom of movement. The brake system was intact and operational. No flat spots were observed on either tire. The mechanic noted that the brakes seemed to be "touchy," adding that a small amount of pedal travel was required to actuate the brakes. In addition, the firewall exhibited a scrape mark and depression consistent with contact from the right rudder/brake pedal linkage. However, movement of the right pedal did not appear to be restricted.

NTSB Identification: CEN16LA202
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, May 29, 2016 in Carlsbad, NM
Aircraft: Harry Oas Pitts S1C, registration: N95R
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

This is preliminary information, subject to change, and may contain errors. Any errors in this report will be corrected when the final report has been completed. NTSB investigators may not have traveled in support of this investigation and used data provided by various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.

On May 29, 2016, about 1100 mountain daylight time, an experimental, amateur-built Harry Oas Pitts S1C airplane, N95R, was substantially damaged when it nosed over following a runway excursion during landing on runway 14L (4,616 feet by 150 feet, asphalt) at the Cavern City Air Terminal (CNM), Carlsbad, New Mexico. The pilot was not injured. The aircraft was registered to and operated by private individuals under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Day, visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight, which was not operated on a flight plan. The flight originated from the Big Spring McMahon-Wrinkle Airport (BPG), Big Spring, Texas, at about 0935.

The pilot reported that the landing approach and touchdown were without incident. As the airplane slowed, it entered a left turn. The pilot applied right rudder and brake inputs in an attempt to maintain directional control; however, those efforts were not effective. The left turn continued until the airplane departed the runway pavement and subsequently nosed over about 15 feet from the edge of the runway.

Rainbow Sky Reach BushCat, N273BC: Accident occurred May 29, 2016 in Mack, Mesa County, Colorado

Executive Aircraft and Jewelry LLC

FAA Flight Standards District Office:  FAA Salt Lake City FSDO-07

NTSB Identification: GAA16CA270

14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, May 29, 2016 in Mack, CO
Probable Cause Approval Date: 08/31/2016
Aircraft: RAINBOW SKY REACH (PTY) LTD BUSHCAT, registration: N273BC
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

NTSB investigators used data provided by various entities, including, but not limited to, the Federal Aviation Administration and/or the operator and did not travel in support of this investigation to prepare this aircraft accident report.

The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that during the landing roll in gusty wind conditions, the airplane veered off the runway to the left, impacted an irrigation ditch, and nosed over. 

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left lift strut. 

According to the pilot there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. 

According to the pilot, the weather at the time of the accident was wind variable at 5-7 knots, and wind gusts 10 knots. The airplane landed on runway 25.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in runway excursion, impact with a ditch, and nose over.

Piper PA-18-150, AK AC LLC, N6966D: Accident occurred May 29, 2016 in Shulin Lake, Alaska

http://registry.faa.gov/N6966D

FAA Flight Standards District Office:  FAA Anchorage FSDO-03

NTSB Identification: GAA16CA273
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Sunday, May 29, 2016 in Shulin Lake, AK
Probable Cause Approval Date: 10/27/2016
Aircraft: PIPER PA 18, registration: N6966D
Injuries: 2 Minor.

NTSB investigators used data provided by various entities, including, but not limited to, the Federal Aviation Administration and/or the operator and did not travel in support of this investigation to prepare this aircraft accident report.

According to the pilot, on short final during landing, he thought that he had cleared the trees on the approach end of the private airstrip. He reported that he aimed for his landing spot, but the propeller struck a tree and the airplane impacted the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the both wings and the fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies or malfunctions during the flight with any portion of the airplane that would have prevented normal flight operations.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from trees during final approach.

Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, N82057; accident occurred May 27, 2016 in Palmer, Alaska -Kathryn's Report

http://registry.faa.gov/N82057 

FAA Flight Standards District Office: FAA Anchorage FSDO-03


NTSB Identification: GAA16CA287

14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, May 27, 2016 in Palmer, AK
Probable Cause Approval Date: 07/14/2016
Aircraft: PIPER PA 18, registration: N82057
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

NTSB investigators used data provided by various entities, including, but not limited to, the Federal Aviation Administration and/or the operator and did not travel in support of this investigation to prepare this aircraft accident report.

The pilot reported that he was practicing off airport landings on a soft gravel strip. The pilot further reported that during the landing roll, he applied excessive brake and the airplane nosed over.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right forward lift strut and empennage.

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:
The pilot's incorrect brake application during the landing roll, which resulted in a nose over.

Cessna 402B, Business Aviation Courier Inc., N76MD: Accident occurred May 27, 2016 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

FAA Flight Standards District Office: FAA Rapid City FSDO-27

BUSINESS AVIATION COURIER INC: http://registry.faa.gov/N76MD

NTSB Identification: CEN16LA201
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, May 27, 2016 in Sioux Falls, SD
Probable Cause Approval Date: 01/18/2017
Aircraft: CESSNA 402B, registration: N76MD
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

NTSB investigators may not have traveled in support of this investigation and used data provided by various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.

The commercial pilot in the left seat and the airline transport pilot in the right seat were conducting new-hire training for the left-seat pilot. While maneuvering for a practice approach, the pilots noticed the left engine was running rough. The left-seat pilot activated the auxiliary fuel pump, and the roughness resolved temporarily. Shortly thereafter, the left engine tachometer went to zero, and the left-seat pilot noticed flames emitting from the left engine cowling. The pilots declared an emergency, secured the left engine, and landed the airplane uneventfully; the wing structure was damaged by the fire. Examination of the left engine revealed thermal damage to the No. 4 cylinder, consistent with a preexisting crack condition that allowed exhaust gas to erode the cylinder head and resulted in an engine fire.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:
The failure of the No. 4 cylinder head, which resulted in an engine fire and subsequent damage to the wing structure.

On May 27, 2016, at 0915 central daylight time, a Cessna 402B airplane, N76MD, experienced an in-flight left engine fire while maneuvering near the Joe Foss Field Airport (FSD), Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The airline transport pilot and commercial pilot were not injured, and the airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The airplane was operated by Encore Air Cargo, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, as a 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident and a company flight plan was filed. The local flight departed FSD at 0840.

According to the airline transport pilot, while maneuvering for a practice approach, the flight crew noticed a rough running left engine. The commercial pilot activated the auxiliary fuel pump, and the engine then operated without issue. Shortly thereafter, the left engine tachometer went to zero and the commercial pilot, who was seated in the left seat, noticed flames emitting from the left engine cowling. The flight crew declared an emergency and secured the left engine. The airplane landed uneventfully and taxied to the company ramp. 

Postaccident examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector and company mechanics revealed substantial damage to the left wing structure and firewall. In addition, the number 4 cylinder was burned through at the exhaust port. The number 6 cylinder valve cover displayed thermal damage consistent with the observed damage to the number 4 cylinder. The number 4 cylinder was removed and sent to Continental Motors Group, Mobile, Alabama, for further examination.

On October 13, 2016, the number 4 cylinder was examined by the Continental Motors Group under the supervision of a National Transportation Safety Board investigator. Examination of the cylinder showed a burned through area at the cylinder head exhaust port, consistent with a preexisting crack that allowed exhaust gas to erode the cylinder head. A preexisting crack could not be determined due to the erosion of the burned through area. In addition to the burned through area, a crack was noted on the opposite side of the exhaust port.

According to the maintenance records, the number 4 cylinder was overhauled 178.3 hours prior to the accident.

Cessna 150J, N60252: Accident occurred May 27, 2016 in Albuquerque, Bernalillo County, New Mexico

http://registry.faa.gov/N60252

FAA Flight Standards District Office: FAA Albuquerque FSDO-01


NTSB Identification: GAA16CA267
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, May 27, 2016 in ALBUQUERQUE, NM
Probable Cause Approval Date: 08/31/2016
Aircraft: CESSNA 150, registration: N60252
Injuries: 1 Minor.

NTSB investigators used data provided by various entities, including, but not limited to, the Federal Aviation Administration and/or the operator and did not travel in support of this investigation to prepare this aircraft accident report.

The solo student pilot reported that while on a cross country flight the airplane's engine started to "sputter" and then stopped. During the off airport forced landing the airplane impacted a ravine. 

According to the student pilot, prior to the loss of engine power, there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine mount. 

The airplane recovery specialist reported that he drained about two gallons of fuel from the airplane's fuel tanks prior to the airplane being moved. According to the manufacturer the airplane has 3 gallons of unusable fuel.

As a safety recommendation the student pilot reported that he should have visually inspected the fuel with a fuel hawk dipstick.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:
The student pilot's inadequate preflight inspection/planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion, loss of engine power, and impact with terrain.

Bob Howell, Howell Special, N4393H: Accident occurred May 27, 2016 at Minden-Tahoe Airport (MEV), Douglas County, Nevada

Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

NTSB Identification: WPR16LA117
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, May 27, 2016 in Minden, NV
Probable Cause Approval Date: 09/06/2017
Aircraft: HOWELL BOB HOWELL SPECIAL, registration: N4393H
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

NTSB investigators may not have traveled in support of this investigation and used data provided by various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.

The private pilot reported that the landing was “normal” but that, during the landing roll, he noticed that the experimental, amateur-built airplane started veering to the left. Shortly thereafter, the right wing suddenly dropped and impacted the runway. He was unable to maintain directional control of the airplane, and it veered off the runway because the right main landing gear (MLG) had collapsed. 

Postaccident examination of the right MLG assembly revealed that the right main tire and wheel had separated from the airplane and that a strut had separated about midpoint. Examination of the fracture features of the right MLG assembly revealed that they exhibited matte-gray features on slant angles, consistent with a ductile overstress fracture. No evidence of preexisting cracks or significant corrosion was observed. The right MLG assembly likely failed due to a hard landing and/or side loading on the MLG. 

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows:
The failure of the right main landing gear assembly due to overstress fracture. 

The National Transportation Safety Board did not travel to the scene of this accident.

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Reno, Nevada

Aviation Accident Factual Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

http://registry.faa.gov/N4393H

NTSB Identification: WPR16LA117
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, May 27, 2016 in Minden, NV
Aircraft: HOWELL BOB HOWELL SPECIAL, registration: N4393H
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

NTSB investigators may not have traveled in support of this investigation and used data provided by various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.

On May 27, 2016, about 1050 Pacific daylight time, an amateur built - experimental Bob Howell, Howell Special airplane, N4393H, sustained substantial damage during the landing roll at the Minden-Tahoe Airport (MEV), Minden, Nevada, following a landing gear collapse. The private pilot and sole passenger on the airplane were not injured. The airplane was registered and operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the personal flight which originated from Bryant Field Airport, Bridgeport, California, about 1015.

The pilot reported a normal landing, however, during the landing roll he noticed the airplane started to veer to the left. He counteracted the veering with right rudder, and brake. Shortly thereafter, about 400 ft down the runway, the right wing suddenly dropped and impacted the runway. He was unable to maintain direction control of the airplane as it veered off the runway. There were no witnesses to the accident.

Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the right wing was substantially damaged. The wreckage was transported to a secure location for further examination.

Postaccident examination of the right landing gear assembly revealed that the right main wheel and tire assembly had separated from the airplane. Further, the remaining main gear, a-frame structure, had a strut that had separated about at the midpoint. The bolts and their respective attachment structures that attached the gear assembly to the airframe were intact. All fracture surfaces of the main gear assembly were sent to the NTSB Materials Laboratory for further examination.

The laboratory determined that the fracture features in the tubular steel structure portions showed matte gray features on slant angles consistent with a ductile overstress fracture. Some areas were observed that were consistent with sliding contact between the fracture surfaces under bending or shear loads. The end fitting was fractured in the threads and also had matte gray fracture features and the adjacent deformation of the threads was consistent with a ductile overstress fracture. No evidence of preexisting cracks or significant corrosion was observed.


The owner/builder stated that several years earlier he made a repair to the landing gear where he heated the welds to realign the gear. However, a ductile overstress fracture would be consistent with a hard landing and/or side loading on the main gear.

NTSB Identification: WPR16LA117
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, May 27, 2016 in Minden, NV
Aircraft: HOWELL BOB HOWELL SPECIAL, registration: N4393H
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

This is preliminary information, subject to change, and may contain errors. Any errors in this report will be corrected when the final report has been completed. NTSB investigators may not have traveled in support of this investigation and used data provided by various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.

On May 27, 2016, about 1050 Pacific daylight time, an experimental, amateur built, Howell Special, N4393H, sustained substantial damage during the landing roll at the Minden-Tahoe Airport (MEV), Minden, Nevada, following a landing gear collapse. The airplane was registered and operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The private pilot and sole passenger on the airplane were uninjured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the personal flight which originated from Bryant Field Airport, Bridgeport, California, at about 1015. 

The pilot reported a normal landing, however, during the landing roll he noticed the airplane settled to the right and he was unable to maintain direction control of the airplane as it veered off the runway, to the left.

Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the right wing was substantially damaged. The wreckage was transported to a secure location for further examination.

Criquet Storch FI-156, N429BB: Fatal accident occurred May 30, 2016 in Fordsville, Kentucky

Dr. Robert "Bob" C. Dalzell, Jr. 
October 11, 1945 - May 30, 2016

Dr. Robert “Bob” C. Dalzell Jr., 70, gained his eternal wings Monday, May 30, 2016, doing what he enjoyed most..flying his plane. He was a member of numerous flying clubs and associations. Robert began flying as a student at Kentucky Wesleyan College and his love of feeling one with the sky never stopped growing throughout the years. If he was not at work, you could find him hanging out in the airport hangars, at The Ayer Flying Club or out to eat with his fellow flying brothers. 


The National Transportation Safety Board did not travel to the scene of this accident.

Additional Participating Entities:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Louisville, Kentucky
Austrian Civil Aviation Safety Investigation Authority; Vienna, Austria
Rotech Motor Ltd; Vernon, BC, Canada

Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board: https://dms.ntsb.gov/pubdms

http://registry.faa.gov/N429BB



Aviation Accident Factual Report - National Transportation Safety Board 

Location: Fordsville, KY
Accident Number: ERA16LA201
Date & Time: 05/30/2016, CDT
Registration: N429BB
Aircraft: CRIQUET AVIATION BOGOTA COLUMB STORCH FI-156
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Unknown or undetermined
Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

Analysis 

The private pilot, who was exercising sport pilot privileges, departed on a personal flight in his recently purchased experimental, amateur-built airplane, and, when he did not arrive at his intended destination, a search was initiated. The wreckage was spotted 2 days later in a heavily wooded area about 6.7 nautical miles from the departure airport. Examination of the accident site revealed damage to trees consistent with a steep descent to ground impact, with no evidence of any bird remains in the vicinity wreckage area. The airplane sustained extensive thermal damage from a postcrash fire; however, examination of the remaining portions of the airframe, flight controls, engine, and engine accessories revealed no evidence of pre-impact failure or malfunction.

The pilot had undergone 4-vessel coronary artery bypass grafting and had a history of hypertension and high cholesterol, which placed him at increased risk for an acute cardiac event such as another heart attack, angina, or an arrhythmia that could have cause symptoms ranging from chest pain and shortness of breath to palpitations and loss of consciousness. However, it could not be determined from the limited information available from the autopsy whether he was impaired or incapacitated at the time of the accident. Therefore, the reason for the steep descent could not be determined based on available evidence.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The steep descent to ground impact for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence. 

Findings

Personnel issues
Predisposing condition - Pilot
Cardiovascular - Pilot

Not determined
Not determined - Unknown/Not determined (Cause)

Factual Information

History of Flight

Unknown
Unknown or undetermined (Defining event)
Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Post-impact
Fire/smoke (post-impact)

On May 30, 2016, at an unknown time, an experimental amateur-built Storch FI-156 airplane, N429BB, crashed in a wooded area near Fordsville, Kentucky. The private pilot was fatally injured, and the airplane was destroyed by impact and a postcrash fire. The flight was conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the personal flight. The flight originated about 1133 central daylight time from Rough River State Park Airport (2I3), Falls of Rough, Kentucky.

According to another pilot, who was a friend of the accident pilot, earlier on the day of the accident, the accident pilot flew his airplane from Owensboro-Daviess County Airport (OWB), Owensboro, Kentucky, to 2I3 and landed about 0945. The friend flew his airplane to 2I3 and met the accident pilot there. The two pilots ate at a local restaurant, and then they prepared to depart from 2I3 in their airplanes. The friend reported hearing the accident pilot perform an engine run-up before takeoff, and he noted that the magneto drops were normal and that the engine was "running strong." After takeoff, the accident pilot turned to a heading of 315°, and the friend lost sight of the airplane when it was about 1.5 miles away. The friend departed in his airplane and attempted to contact the accident pilot via radio, but he did not receive a reply to any of his transmissions. The friend then proceeded to the Ohio County Airport, Hartford, Kentucky, and landed uneventfully.

The pilot's friend indicated that the accident pilot might have intended to fly to a nearby ultralight airstrip before returning to OWB. When the airplane did not arrive at OWB by sunset, the friend contacted law enforcement. A search for the missing airplane was initiated, and the wreckage was located on the afternoon of June 1, 2016, about 6.7 nautical miles west-northwest from 2I3.

Review of all recorded radar targets below 10,000 ft mean sea level (msl) in the vicinity of the departure airport and the accident location between 1030 and 1230 revealed no targets that could be associated with the accident flight. 


 Dr. Robert "Bob" C. Dalzell, Jr. 

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private; Sport Pilot
Age: 70, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Glider
Restraint Used: Unknown
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: Yes
Medical Certification: Class 3 None
Last FAA Medical Exam: 12/22/1998
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: (Estimated) 3500 hours (Total, all aircraft), 6 hours (Total, this make and model) 

According to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records, the pilot, age 70, held a private pilot certificate with ratings for airplane single- and multi-engine land, instrument airplane, and glider and a sport endorsement for airplane single-engine sea. His most recent medical certificate was a special issuance third-class medical certificate dated December 22, 1998. This medical certificate required that the pilot use corrective lenses and was valid only for 15 months from the date it was issued. At the time of the accident, the pilot was exercising sport pilot privileges and was not required to hold a medical certificate. During a telephone interview, a friend of the pilot estimated that the pilot's total flight time was about 3,500 hours, and he had flown about 6 hours in the accident airplane.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Manufacturer: CRIQUET AVIATION BOGOTA COLUMB
Registration: N429BB
Model/Series: STORCH FI-156 NO SERIES
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2012
Amateur Built: Yes
Airworthiness Certificate: Experimental
Serial Number: CS 09008
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 02/15/2016, Condition
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1320 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 5 Hours
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 105.8 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Rotax
ELT: Installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: 912ULS
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 100 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None 

The two-place experimental amateur-built airplane was manufactured in 2012. It was powered by a Rotax 912 ULS engine driving a Tennessee Propellers, Inc., 72-48 fixed-pitch propeller. It was equipped with fixed leading-edge slats that spanned nearly the entire length of each wing and manually-operated fowler flaps. The previous owner reported that the airplane's stall speed was 20 mph.

Review of the maintenance records indicated a condition inspection was completed on February 15, 2016, at an airplane total time since manufacture of 105.8 hours.

The pilot purchased the airplane on May 28, 2016. The mechanic who performed an inspection of the airplane before purchase indicated that there were no unairworthy items found. At the time of the pre-purchase inspection, the airframe and engine total times were 110 and 220 hours, respectively. 



Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: FTK, 755 ft msl
Observation Time: 1158 CDT
Distance from Accident Site: 35 Nautical Miles
Direction from Accident Site: 66°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Temperature/Dew Point: 28°C / 16°C
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility: 10 Miles
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction:  6 knots, 350°
Visibility (RVR):
Altimeter Setting: 30.04 inches Hg
Visibility (RVV):
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Falls of Rough, KY (2I3)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination:
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1133 CDT
Type of Airspace: 

The 1158 automated surface observation taken at Godman Army Airfield (FTK), Fort Knox, KY, located about 35 nautical miles from the accident site, reported wind from 350° at 6 knots, 10 statute miles visibility, and clear skies. The temperature and dew point were 28°C and 16°C, respectively, and the altimeter setting was 30.04 inches of mercury. 

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: On-Ground
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: Unknown
Total Injuries: 1 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude: 37.672222, -86.636389 

The airplane crashed in a heavily wooded area. A postcrash fire consumed most of the airplane and damaged the immediate surrounding area. Treetop damage was not detected outside of the immediate impact area, and evidence of bird remains was not noted during examination of the accident site and the surrounding area.

Examination of the airplane revealed that it was resting in an upright position, with the engine detached and laying about 3 to 4 ft to the left of the firewall. All components necessary to sustain flight remained attached or were found near the main wreckage.

Extensive thermal damage precluded determination of switch positions and instrument readings. Determination of pre-impact engine control positions was not possible due to the separation of the engine during the impact sequence. The flaps were found retracted.

Examination of the flight controls for roll, pitch, and yaw revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction; the pitch trim was set to mid-travel.

The engine was recovered for further examination by a representative of the engine manufacturer with Federal Aviation Administration oversight. Due to the extensive heat damage to the engine, rotation of the crankshaft could not be performed, and the flywheel could not be removed. A limited examination of the power section was performed, and no anomalies were noted. The fuel, ignition, and lubrication system components sustained heat damage. There was no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction of these systems.

The majority of the wood propeller was consumed by fire, leaving about 10% of the hub area. The propeller mounting hardware was in-place and secured. 

Medical And Pathological Information

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Louisville, Kentucky, performed an autopsy of the pilot. According to the autopsy report, the cause of death was multiple blunt force injuries. The report also noted a large transmural scar of the anterolateral left ventricle wall, and that ischemic/atherosclerotic coronary artery disease was a significant factor contributing to the pilot's death. The report referenced medical records that indicated the pilot had undergone 4-vessel coronary artery bypass grafting and had a history of hypertension and high cholesterol. The examination of the body for natural disease was limited by the extent of injury.


The FAA Bioaeronautical Sciences Research Laboratory, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, performed toxicological testing of specimens from the pilot. The toxicology report indicated that no ethanol was detected in the submitted muscle and brain specimens, and no tested drugs were detected in the submitted muscle specimen.

NTSB Identification: ERA16LA201
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Monday, May 30, 2016 in Fordsville, KY
Aircraft: CRIQUET AVIATION BOGOTA COLUMB STORCH FI-156, registration: N429BB
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

This is preliminary information, subject to change, and may contain errors. Any errors in this report will be corrected when the final report has been completed. NTSB investigators may not have traveled in support of this investigation and used data provided by various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.

On May 30, 2016, at an unknown time, an experimental amateur-built Storch FI-156 airplane, N429BB, crashed in a wooded area near Fordsville, Kentucky. The private pilot, the sole occupant was fatally injured and the airplane was destroyed by impact and a postcrash fire. The personal flight was conducted under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) as a Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed on that day, and no flight plan was filed for the flight. The flight originated about 1130 central daylight time, from Rough River State Park Airport (2I3), Falls of Rough, Kentucky.

According to a friend of the accident pilot, since purchasing the airplane 2 days prior, the pilot flew it on several flights, including a flight earlier in the day from Owensboro-Daviess County Airport (OWB), Owensboro, Kentucky to 2I3, landing there about 0945. After landing, he and the pilot ate at a local restaurant and then prepared to depart from 2I3. The friend reported hearing an engine run-up before takeoff, and noted that the magneto drops were normal and the engine was "running strong." After takeoff he watched as the pilot turned to a heading of 315 degrees (normal) and lost sight of the airplane when it was about 1.5 miles away.

The pilot's friend indicated that the pilot might have intended to fly to a nearby ultralight airstrip, or return to OWB. The pilot's friend then departed 2I3 in his airplane, and attempted to contact the pilot via radio, but the pilot did not reply to any of his transmissions. He proceeded to the Ohio County Airport (JQD), Hartford, Kentucky and landed uneventfully. He later contacted law enforcement because the pilot had not returned to OWB, and met with law enforcement later that evening. The following day he performed an air search himself but did not locate the wreckage. Personnel of the Civil Air Patrol were also involved in a search for the missing airplane; the wreckage was located on the afternoon of June 1st.
Dr. Robert "Bob" C. Dalzell, Jr. 
October 11, 1945 - May 30, 2016

Dr. Robert “Bob” C. Dalzell Jr., 70, gained his eternal wings Monday, May 30, 2016, doing what he enjoyed most..flying his plane. He was a member of numerous flying clubs and associations. Robert began flying as a student at Kentucky Wesleyan College and his love of feeling one with the sky never stopped growing throughout the years. If he was not at work, you could find him hanging out in the airport hangars, at The Ayer Flying Club or out to eat with his fellow flying brothers. 


The National Transportation Safety Board did not travel to the scene of this accident.

Additional Participating Entities:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Louisville, Kentucky 
Austrian Civil Aviation Safety Investigation Authority; Vienna, Austria
Rotech Motor Ltd; Vernon, BC, Canada 

Aviation Accident Factual Report - National Transportation Safety Board:  https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:  https://dms.ntsb.gov/pubdms

http://registry.faa.gov/N429BB



Aviation Accident Factual Report - National Transportation Safety Board 

Location: Fordsville, KY
Accident Number: ERA16LA201
Date & Time: 05/30/2016, CDT
Registration: N429BB
Aircraft: CRIQUET AVIATION BOGOTA COLUMB STORCH FI-156
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Unknown or undetermined
Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On May 30, 2016, at an unknown time, an experimental amateur-built Storch FI-156 airplane, N429BB, crashed in a wooded area near Fordsville, Kentucky. The private pilot was fatally injured, and the airplane was destroyed by impact and a postcrash fire. The flight was conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the personal flight. The flight originated about 1133 central daylight time from Rough River State Park Airport (2I3), Falls of Rough, Kentucky.

According to another pilot, who was a friend of the accident pilot, earlier on the day of the accident, the accident pilot flew his airplane from Owensboro-Daviess County Airport (OWB), Owensboro, Kentucky, to 2I3 and landed about 0945. The friend flew his airplane to 2I3 and met the accident pilot there. The two pilots ate at a local restaurant, and then they prepared to depart from 2I3 in their airplanes. The friend reported hearing the accident pilot perform an engine run-up before takeoff, and he noted that the magneto drops were normal and that the engine was "running strong." After takeoff, the accident pilot turned to a heading of 315°, and the friend lost sight of the airplane when it was about 1.5 miles away. The friend departed in his airplane and attempted to contact the accident pilot via radio, but he did not receive a reply to any of his transmissions. The friend then proceeded to the Ohio County Airport, Hartford, Kentucky, and landed uneventfully.

The pilot's friend indicated that the accident pilot might have intended to fly to a nearby ultralight airstrip before returning to OWB. When the airplane did not arrive at OWB by sunset, the friend contacted law enforcement. A search for the missing airplane was initiated, and the wreckage was located on the afternoon of June 1, 2016, about 6.7 nautical miles west-northwest from 2I3.

Review of all recorded radar targets below 10,000 ft mean sea level (msl) in the vicinity of the departure airport and the accident location between 1030 and 1230 revealed no targets that could be associated with the accident flight. 


 Dr. Robert "Bob" C. Dalzell, Jr. 

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private; Sport Pilot
Age: 70, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Glider
Restraint Used: Unknown
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: Yes
Medical Certification: Class 3 None
Last FAA Medical Exam: 12/22/1998
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: (Estimated) 3500 hours (Total, all aircraft), 6 hours (Total, this make and model) 

According to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records, the pilot, age 70, held a private pilot certificate with ratings for airplane single- and multi-engine land, instrument airplane, and glider and a sport endorsement for airplane single-engine sea. His most recent medical certificate was a special issuance third-class medical certificate dated December 22, 1998. This medical certificate required that the pilot use corrective lenses and was valid only for 15 months from the date it was issued. At the time of the accident, the pilot was exercising sport pilot privileges and was not required to hold a medical certificate. During a telephone interview, a friend of the pilot estimated that the pilot's total flight time was about 3,500 hours, and he had flown about 6 hours in the accident airplane.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Manufacturer: CRIQUET AVIATION BOGOTA COLUMB
Registration: N429BB
Model/Series: STORCH FI-156 NO SERIES
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2012
Amateur Built: Yes
Airworthiness Certificate: Experimental
Serial Number: CS 09008
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 02/15/2016, Condition
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1320 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 5 Hours
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 105.8 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Rotax
ELT: Installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: 912ULS
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 100 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None 

The two-place experimental amateur-built airplane was manufactured in 2012. It was powered by a Rotax 912 ULS engine driving a Tennessee Propellers, Inc., 72-48 fixed-pitch propeller. It was equipped with fixed leading-edge slats that spanned nearly the entire length of each wing and manually-operated fowler flaps. The previous owner reported that the airplane's stall speed was 20 mph.

Review of the maintenance records indicated a condition inspection was completed on February 15, 2016, at an airplane total time since manufacture of 105.8 hours.

The pilot purchased the airplane on May 28, 2016. The mechanic who performed an inspection of the airplane before purchase indicated that there were no unairworthy items found. At the time of the pre-purchase inspection, the airframe and engine total times were 110 and 220 hours, respectively. 



Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: FTK, 755 ft msl
Observation Time: 1158 CDT
Distance from Accident Site: 35 Nautical Miles
Direction from Accident Site: 66°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Temperature/Dew Point: 28°C / 16°C
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility: 10 Miles
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction:  6 knots, 350°
Visibility (RVR):
Altimeter Setting: 30.04 inches Hg
Visibility (RVV):
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Falls of Rough, KY (2I3)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination:
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1133 CDT
Type of Airspace: 

The 1158 automated surface observation taken at Godman Army Airfield (FTK), Fort Knox, KY, located about 35 nautical miles from the accident site, reported wind from 350° at 6 knots, 10 statute miles visibility, and clear skies. The temperature and dew point were 28°C and 16°C, respectively, and the altimeter setting was 30.04 inches of mercury. 

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: On-Ground
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: Unknown
Total Injuries: 1 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude: 37.672222, -86.636389 

The airplane crashed in a heavily wooded area. A postcrash fire consumed most of the airplane and damaged the immediate surrounding area. Treetop damage was not detected outside of the immediate impact area, and evidence of bird remains was not noted during examination of the accident site and the surrounding area.

Examination of the airplane revealed that it was resting in an upright position, with the engine detached and laying about 3 to 4 ft to the left of the firewall. All components necessary to sustain flight remained attached or were found near the main wreckage.

Extensive thermal damage precluded determination of switch positions and instrument readings. Determination of pre-impact engine control positions was not possible due to the separation of the engine during the impact sequence. The flaps were found retracted.

Examination of the flight controls for roll, pitch, and yaw revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction; the pitch trim was set to mid-travel.

The engine was recovered for further examination by a representative of the engine manufacturer with Federal Aviation Administration oversight. Due to the extensive heat damage to the engine, rotation of the crankshaft could not be performed, and the flywheel could not be removed. A limited examination of the power section was performed, and no anomalies were noted. The fuel, ignition, and lubrication system components sustained heat damage. There was no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction of these systems.

The majority of the wood propeller was consumed by fire, leaving about 10% of the hub area. The propeller mounting hardware was in-place and secured. 

Medical And Pathological Information

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Louisville, Kentucky, performed an autopsy of the pilot. According to the autopsy report, the cause of death was multiple blunt force injuries. The report also noted a large transmural scar of the anterolateral left ventricle wall, and that ischemic/atherosclerotic coronary artery disease was a significant factor contributing to the pilot's death. The report referenced medical records that indicated the pilot had undergone 4-vessel coronary artery bypass grafting and had a history of hypertension and high cholesterol. The examination of the body for natural disease was limited by the extent of injury.


The FAA Bioaeronautical Sciences Research Laboratory, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, performed toxicological testing of specimens from the pilot. The toxicology report indicated that no ethanol was detected in the submitted muscle and brain specimens, and no tested drugs were detected in the submitted muscle specimen.

NTSB Identification: ERA16LA201
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Monday, May 30, 2016 in Fordsville, KY
Aircraft: CRIQUET AVIATION BOGOTA COLUMB STORCH FI-156, registration: N429BB
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

This is preliminary information, subject to change, and may contain errors. Any errors in this report will be corrected when the final report has been completed. NTSB investigators may not have traveled in support of this investigation and used data provided by various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.

On May 30, 2016, at an unknown time, an experimental amateur-built Storch FI-156 airplane, N429BB, crashed in a wooded area near Fordsville, Kentucky. The private pilot, the sole occupant was fatally injured and the airplane was destroyed by impact and a postcrash fire. The personal flight was conducted under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) as a Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed on that day, and no flight plan was filed for the flight. The flight originated about 1130 central daylight time, from Rough River State Park Airport (2I3), Falls of Rough, Kentucky.

According to a friend of the accident pilot, since purchasing the airplane 2 days prior, the pilot flew it on several flights, including a flight earlier in the day from Owensboro-Daviess County Airport (OWB), Owensboro, Kentucky to 2I3, landing there about 0945. After landing, he and the pilot ate at a local restaurant and then prepared to depart from 2I3. The friend reported hearing an engine run-up before takeoff, and noted that the magneto drops were normal and the engine was "running strong." After takeoff he watched as the pilot turned to a heading of 315 degrees (normal) and lost sight of the airplane when it was about 1.5 miles away.

The pilot's friend indicated that the pilot might have intended to fly to a nearby ultralight airstrip, or return to OWB. The pilot's friend then departed 2I3 in his airplane, and attempted to contact the pilot via radio, but the pilot did not reply to any of his transmissions. He proceeded to the Ohio County Airport (JQD), Hartford, Kentucky and landed uneventfully. He later contacted law enforcement because the pilot had not returned to OWB, and met with law enforcement later that evening. The following day he performed an air search himself but did not locate the wreckage. Personnel of the Civil Air Patrol were also involved in a search for the missing airplane; the wreckage was located on the afternoon of June 1st.



HANCOCK, Co., Ky.(WHAS 11)--An autopsy will be performed to positively identify a body pulled from a plane that crashed near Fordsville in Hancock County.

It's believed to be 70-year-old Robert Dalzell of Owensboro.

The pilot went missing on May 30 shortly after take off.

The Kentucky Army National Guard spotted scorched marks a few miles from the Falls of Rough Airport in Grayson County.

Investigators located the debris from the downed plane.

WHAS11's John Humphress went to the heavily wooded area where the wreckage was discovered.

The property owner just returned from out of town.

Kentucky State Police say while they could not positively identify the body as Dalzell however, authorities have notified the pilot's family of their investigation.

Story and video:  http://www.whas11.com


LOUISVILLE (WHAS11) – The plane of missing Owensboro pilot Robert Dalzell Jr. was located on Wednesday afternoon, according to authorities.

Lt. Col. Greg Bell found the plane in a heavily wooded area seven miles from the Falls of Rough Airport, but Dalzell Jr. has not been located at this time.

Kentucky State Police and Civil Air Patrol have been looking for Dalzell since Monday after he departed from the airport at 11:20 a.m. and never returned.

Officials give update on missing Owensboro plane found on Wednesday

KSP said his last cell phone activity ping was at 11:32 a.m. Monday.

Dalzell Jr. is a white male, 5’05”, 175 pounds and has grey hair and Hazel eyes.

He was last seen flying a 2012 Green Aero Criquet Bogota fixed wing plane with the tail number of N429BB.


Story and video:  http://www.whas11.com

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Kentucky State Police say they are searching for a missing Owensboro pilot.

According to a KSP news release, 70-year-old Robert C. Dalzall Jr. left the Owensboro Regional Airport Monday around 9:10 a.m. Officials say he successfully landed at the Falls of Rough airport, located in Grayson County, at 9:45 a.m. According to Kentucky State Police, Dalzall left the Falls of Rough airport at 11:20 a.m. and did not return to the Owensboro airport.

KSP says Dalzall's last cell phone activity ping was Monday at 11:31 a.m., within five miles of the Fall of Rough airport.

Officials describe Dalzall as a white male. He is five feet, five inches tall and weighs 175 pounds. He has grey hair and hazel eyes.

Police say he was flying a 2012 Green Aero Criquet Bogota fixed wing plane. The plane's tail number is N429BB.

The Civil Air Patrol currently has two airplanes conducting a search from Owensboro to Falls of Rough.

Original article can be found here: http://www.wdrb.com

GRAYSON COUNTY, Ky. —Kentucky State Police and Civil Air Patrol are looking for a missing Owensboro pilot and airplane last seen Monday morning in Grayson County.

Troopers said Robert C. Dalzall Jr., 70, left Owensboro Regional Airport on Monday at 9:10 a.m. and landed at the Falls of Rough airport, in Grayson County, at 9:45 a.m.

Police said Dalzall left the Falls of Rough airport at 11:20 a.m. and never returned to the Owensboro airport.

KSP said his last cellphone activity ping was 11:32 a.m. Monday within five miles of Falls of Rough airport.

Dalzall was flying a 2012 green Aero Criquet Bogota fixed wing plane with tail number N429BB.

He is 5 feet 5 inches tall, 175 pounds with grey hair and hazel eyes.

Two Civil Air Patrol planes are searching from Owensboro to Falls of Rough.

Officials ask those who are in the Falls of Rough area to be extra vigilant.