Tuesday, July 19, 2016

Pilots: Firing of Allegiant Air pilot for St. Pete-Clearwater emergency landing endangers public

Allegiant Air's termination of a pilot who ordered the evacuation of an aircraft last year at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport endangers the public because other pilots might hesitate in an emergency for fear of being second-guessed.

That is according to pre-trial testimony of Allegiant pilots, made public late Monday, in the lawsuit against Allegiant filed by the fired pilot, Jason Kinzer, in Nevada state court. Pilots also said they would have done the same as Kinzer presented with the same circumstances — evacuate the airplane.

Pilot Cameron Graff testified that Kinzer's dismissal was a warning by the Las Vegas-based airline to its pilots, who were then engaged through their union in bitter contract negotiations with Allegiant.

"It's my opinion that Capt. Kinzer was terminated to quell the pilot group, to silence the pilot group, to ... keep the pilots from reporting safety events, emergencies, those type of events," said Graff, a pilots' union leader.

"That type of message I would say is dangerous to the public safety because it puts pilots in a position where they don't report safety issues, they don't report mechanical issues. They may even hesitate at a time they need to evacuate ... and having more on their minds that, 'Am I going to be second-guessed for getting these people off the airplane safely? And will I be terminated?' "

That had real world implications last August, according to testimony, when an Allegiant aircraft's elevator — a critical control surface on the plane's tail — jammed during a flight's take-off roll, causing the aircraft's nose to rise prematurely at a speed of more than 130 mph.

The pilot successfully aborted takeoff, later reporting that the aircraft probably would have crashed if it had become airborne.

Allegiant pilot Michael Bastianelli testified in the Kinzer case that he spoke to the pilot who aborted that takeoff.

"He told us his first thought (was) ... 'If I initiate this abort, I'm going to get called in for another meeting,'" Bastianelli said. "And he said — he's very upset about that because he lost three to four seconds of time as that thought went through his head, and that ate up an extra thousand foot of runway or so."

Excerpts of testimony by Graff and several other Allegiant pilots are attached as exhibits in a motion filed by Kinzer's attorneys opposing Allegiant's motion to dismiss the case. No trial date is yet set in the lawsuit that argues Kinzer was unjustly fired. Allegiant says Kinzer displayed poor judgment and did not need to evacuate the plane.

Allegiant officials did not respond Tuesday to a request for comment by the Tampa Bay Times.

Kinzer, then 43, was flying Flight 864 that departed the Pinellas County airport with 141 passengers on June 8, 2015 bound for Hagerstown, Md., when flight attendants reported acrid smoke in the cabin. The pilot declared an emergency and returned to the airport.

Evacuation chutes were deployed upon landing. Eight people suffered minor injuries in the evacuation. The most-serious injury was a broken wrist.

The motion said pilots were told by someone in airport Fire Rescue upon landing, "I'm showing smoke on the No. 1 engine."

Allegiant's operating manual for pilots mandates an evacuation even with just the "possibility of a fire," the motion said. The motion said confusion among Fire Rescue personnel also contributed to the decision to evacuate. An unidentified person with Fire Rescue told the crew not to evacuate, but then Fire Rescue failed to respond when Kinzer tried repeatedly to contact them, the motion said.

The pilots worried they did not respond because they were too busy fighting a fire, the motion said.

Greg Baden, a pilot who was Allegiant's vice president of operations when Kinzer was fired, acknowledged that he believed Kinzer's motivation in evacuating the aircraft was passenger safety.

Referring to the older, MD-80 Kinzer was flying, Baden said, "It's a 40-year-old airplane and the tolerances aren't as tight as they should be."

Several Allegiant pilots deposed in the case said they would have evacuated the aircraft just as Kinzer had.

"Given the same information he had at the time, I probably would have made the exact same decision," said pilot Gary Hasterok, he attended an Allegiant review board meeting investigating the emergency landing.

He said that during Allegiant's formal review of the case that its "agenda was to transfer blame from the company to the pilot, and they weren't really interested in what Capt. Kinzer had to say. It seemed they already made up their mind" to fire him.

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

Piper PA-32R-301T Saratoga II TC, Ostrans LLC, N269Z: Incident occurred July 19, 2016 at Buffalo Niagara International Airport (KBUF), Buffalo, Erie County, New York

OSTRANS LLC: http://registry.faa.gov/N269Z

FAA Flight Standards District Office: FAA Rochester FSDO-23

Date: 19-JUL-16
Time: 18:34:00Z
Regis#: N269Z
Aircraft Make: PIPER
Aircraft Model: PA32R
Event Type: Incident
Highest Injury: None
Damage: Unknown
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
City: BUFFALO
State: New York

AIRCRAFT LANDED GEAR UP, BUFFALO, NEW YORK.



CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. (WKBW) - Crews are currently responding to an emergency at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport.

It appears a small aircraft had problems landing.

According to the NFTA, the plane was being used for a training flight and was occupied by a student pilot and a trainer.

The landing gear failed to deploy and the plane made a "belly landing."

There are no injuries reported at this time.

Story and video:  http://www.wkbw.com



CHEEKTOWAGA, NY-A flight instructor and student pilot were not hurt after their single engine plane made a hard landing Tuesday afternoon at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport.

NFTA spokesperson Doug Hartmayer says the aircraft's wheels failed to deploy during landing, causing the plane to land on its belly and skid to a stop.

The identities of the two people involved were not available.

Hartmayer says the airport operations were not affected by the incident.

Story and video:  http://www.wgrz.com

Cessna 182J Skylane, N2644F: Accident occurred July 19, 2016 near Parker County Airport (KWEA), Weatherford, Texas



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

Additional Participating Entities:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Fort Worth, Texas
Textron Aviation; Wichita, Kansas
Continental Motors; Mobile, Alabama

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/N2644F



Location: Weatherford, TX
Accident Number: CEN16LA270
Date & Time: 07/19/2016, 0903 CDT
Registration: N2644F
Aircraft: CESSNA 182J
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of engine power (partial)
Injuries: 1 Serious, 2 Minor
Flight Conducted Under:  Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

Analysis

The private pilot stated that, shortly after takeoff and while 300 to 500 ft above ground level, the engine experienced a loss of power when he activated the flap switch. The pilot troubleshot the loss of power and attempted to restart the engine; the engine restarted momentarily, then lost power again. The pilot did not pull the boost cutoff control. During the emergency landing, the airplane collided with a barbed wire fence and impacted several trees.

An electronic engine monitor provided data from the accident flight. There were several noticeable voids in the engine monitor data, indicative of electrical power interruptions to the device. The final electrical power interruption occurred about the time of the accident. The investigation was unable to determine a reason for the electrical power interruptions to the engine monitor other than the cycling of the avionics switch. The airplane's electrical system could not be functionally tested due to impact damage.

Four engine test runs were conducted, revealing no anomalies. During the tests, the battery voltage displayed 13 to 15 volts, and the ammeter did not show a discharge. Examination of the airplane revealed that the aftermarket supercharger drive belt was improperly installed upside down. The fuel inlet screen contained a small amount of multicolor organic material similar to tree leaves. The presence of organic material did not adversely affect the engine test runs, and likely was the result of the impact with trees during the accident sequence.

According to the emergency procedures provided by the supercharger manufacturer, the supercharged engine can be operated during a loss of electrical power by pulling the boost cutoff control. Pulling the boost cutoff control results in gravity-fed fuel supplying the engine at un-boosted manifold pressure and allows operation as a normally-aspirated engine. Further, if the boost cutoff control is not pulled when electrical power is lost, surging occurs as the carburetor bowl empties and refills and will continue as long as fuel is available in the fuel system. The surging stops when the boost cutoff control is pulled. It is likely that, had the pilot pulled the boost cutoff control, the engine would have stopped surging and engine power would have been restored. The pilot stated he was not trained in the operation of the supercharger; however, the airplane flight manual supplement contained information regarding supercharger operation and emergency procedures. 

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
An electrical system malfunction for reasons that could not be determined, and the subsequent loss of engine power due to the loss of the electrical boost pumps. Also causal was the pilot's improper emergency action following the loss of engine power due to his lack of knowledge regarding the engine's supercharger system. 

Findings

Aircraft
Electrical power system - Malfunction (Cause)
Recip eng supercharger - Capability exceeded (Cause) 

Personnel issues
Knowledge of procedures - Pilot (Cause)
Knowledge of equipment - Pilot (Cause)
Identification/recognition - Pilot (Cause)
Forgotten action/omission - Pilot (Cause)

Environmental issues
Tree(s) - Contributed to outcome

Factual Information

History of Flight

Emergency descent
Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)
Off-field or emergency landing

Initial climb
Loss of engine power (partial) (Defining event)
Electrical system malf/failure

On July 19, 2016, at 0903 central daylight time, a Cessna 182J airplane, N2644F, experienced a loss of engine power after departure and the pilot conducted a forced landing to a field near Weatherford, Texas. The private pilot and one passenger sustained minor injuries and the second passenger sustained serious injuries. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight which was operated without a flight plan. The flight was departing from Parker County Airport (WEA), Weatherford, TX, and was en route to Pecos Municipal Airport (PEQ), Pecos, Texas.

The pilot reported that he had departed from Denton Enterprise Airport (DTO), Denton, Texas, which was about 36 miles northeast of WEA. He landed at WEA and two passengers boarded the airplane while the engine continued to operate. He then taxied to the runway and noted that all the instruments showed normal operations, including the JPI engine data monitor (EDM) 700. He extended the flaps 10° for takeoff, increased the engine power to 29 inches of engine manifold pressure and 2,600 rpm, and lifted off at 60 to 65 mph. After takeoff, he retracted the flaps and noticed that the avionics turned off. He cycled the avionics master switch, but the avionics did not turn on again. About 40 seconds after takeoff while 300 to 500 ft above ground level, the engine experienced a loss of power. He attempted to troubleshoot the loss of power and to restart the engine; the engine restarted for about two seconds and then lost power again. The pilot did not remember if the engine ever experienced a total loss of power since he was concentrating on flying the airplane. He also did not remember if he ever pulled the boost cutoff control. He did not continue to troubleshoot the issue since his altitude was low and made a shallow bank towards a field for an emergency landing. During the landing, the airplane collided with a barbed wire fence, continued into a field, impacted several trees and came to rest on a road. When the airplane came to rest, the pilot noted that fuel was pouring out of the fuel tanks all over the occupants. The pilot and two passengers exited the airplane.

A witness, who was working in a field north of the accident site, stated that he heard an airplane engine overhead. He observed the accident airplane in a descent, apparently attempting to land in a pasture when it hit a fence in the middle of the pasture. He called 911 and drove to the accident site. He observed three occupants who were already out of the airplane and noticed that fuel was pouring out of the wings onto the ground.

The pilot stated to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, that one of the passengers recalled hearing the engine regain power just before touching down in the field.

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 49, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: Lap Only
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 01/27/2015
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 01/27/2015
Flight Time: 139 hours (Total, this make and model)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Manufacturer: CESSNA
Registration: N2644F
Model/Series: 182J -
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1966
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 18256744
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 06/20/2016, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2800 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 6336.5 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: CONT MOTOR
ELT: Installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: O-470-R25A
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 235 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None 

A Forced Aeromotive Technologies (FAT) supercharger was installed on the airplane in May 2004 under supplemental type certificate (STC) SE10233SC and STC SA10232SC.

On June 20, 2016, an annual inspection was completed at a tachometer time of 2,245.3 hours. During the inspection the maintenance personnel "checked and adjusted supercharger belt as per Force Air Tech service instructions." 

The pilot stated he was not trained of the operation of the supercharger by the manufacturer or the previous airplane owner after he purchased the airplane, nor was he required to do so. 

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KNFW, 608 ft msl
Observation Time: 0852 CDT
Distance from Accident Site: 12 Nautical Miles
Direction from Accident Site: 78°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 25000 ft agl
Temperature/Dew Point: 29°C / 22°C
Lowest Ceiling: 
Visibility:  10 Miles
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 4 knots, 130°
Visibility (RVR): 
Altimeter Setting: 30.21 inches Hg
Visibility (RVV): 
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Weatherford, TX (WEA)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: PECOS, TX (PEQ)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 0901 CDT
Type of Airspace: Class E

Airport Information

Airport: PARKER COUNTY (WEA)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 991 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Unknown
Runway Used: 17
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 2892 ft / 40 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Forced Landing



Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Serious, 2 Minor
Latitude, Longitude: 32.727222, -97.682222 (est) 

The responding FAA inspector reported that the left wing was folded over the top of the fuselage and the right wing was bent aft. The top of the cabin area had been opened and displaced aft. The fuselage was bent upward near the front seats. 

Accident airplane

A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine was conducted by the NTSB Investigator-in-Charge (IIC), with technical representatives from Textron Aviation and Continental Motors, after recovery from the accident site. The engine was intact with no noticeable external damage. It was equipped with a FAT belt driven supercharger system that included two fuel boost pumps between the airframe fuel line and the engine carburetor. The top spark plugs and cylinder rocker covers were removed and the crankshaft was manually rotated with continuity confirmed to all cylinders and to the rear of the engine. The chromed cylinders were examined using a lighted borescope; all cylinder domes and pistons exhibited normal combustion deposits. All intake and exhaust valves were in place and free to move; suction and compression was confirmed in each cylinder. The magneto timing was checked and both magnetos were found to be timed at 22° before top dead center, which was normal timing. The top spark plugs exhibited normal wear signatures and dark deposits in the electrode areas. The air intake filter was clean and clear. The oil filter was in place and not damaged. The filter was opened and contained no debris or metal deposits in the filter element. The propeller remained attached to the crankshaft. Both propeller blades were bent and twisted aft and exhibited chordwise scratches and polishing. The cowl flap lever was positioned to OPEN. The carburetor heat control knob was full forward. The boost cutoff control knob was full forward and was not labeled on the instrument panel. The rudder and elevator flight control cables were continuous and undamaged. The left and right wings had been removed during the recovery process. The aileron flight control cables exhibited multiple overload separations. One portion of the left aileron control cable had been cut during the recovery process.

The flap motor was energized with an external battery and operated the flaps normally. The flaps were found extended 10°. Due to impact damage and the displacement of the airplane during recovery the entire electrical system could not be functionally tested.

An engine test run was conducted by the NTSB IIC and technical representatives from Textron Aviation, Continental Motors, and FAT. Prior to the test run procedures, the engine was examined. The gascolator screen was removed and was clean and clear of contaminants. The fuel inlet screen was removed from the carburetor and contained a small amount of multicolor organic material similar to tree leaves. The airplane had been stored outdoors at the storage facility.

An external fuel source was connected to the airframe fuel line and the engine was started and test run several times. The engine operated at full power performance according to the STC operating specifications. The alternator inoperative and low fuel pressure lights were pressed and illuminated as expected. The lights did not illuminate during the engine test runs. The ammeter remained near zero and did not show a discharge.

After the test runs were completed the carburetor was removed and examined. The carburetor was in place and not damaged. The throttle and mixture controls remained connected appropriately and were free to move. The unit was disassembled and the bowl was clean and clear. The floats and needle valve were attached and were free to move. The needle valve seat was clean and clear.

Also following the test runs, the engine cowling was opened to facilitate further examination of the engine compartment. The supercharger drive belt was installed on the idler gear inside out.

Additional Information

FAT Supercharger Information

The Airplane Flight Manual Supplement (AFMS) states that the supercharger supplies boosted engine induction air (figure 3) so it is necessary to boost fuel pressure to ensure an unimpeded flow of fuel through the carburetor. The two fuel pumps supply fuel to the carburetor at the required pressure. Either pump will independently supply sufficient fuel pressure for engine operation, but two are installed to provide backup in case of a pump failure. According to the STC manufacturer, as the fuel level in the carburetor changes, air flows in and out of the fuel bowl through a passage inside the mouth of the carburetor. When the supercharger is installed, this air passage becomes pressurized and at power levels above 1,700 rpm, the pressurized air in the fuel bowl pushes the fuel out and back to the fuel tank. The electric fuel boost pumps counter the air pressure so that the fuel enters the float chamber correctly.

FAT Supercharger Diagram

The AFMS further states that in the event of a complete electrical failure (alternator or battery), the engine can be operated using gravity-fed fuel at un-boosted manifold pressure using the boost cutoff control. When the boost cutoff control is pulled, pressurized air from the supercharger is dumped into the engine compartment before reaching the carburetor. This lowers the carburetor's requirement for pressurized fuel and allows operation as a normally-aspirated engine. The STC owner added that, during a complete electrical system failure, the effect would be the same as turning off the fuel boost pumps. With the fuel boost pumps off and engine power above 1,700 rpm, the carburetor fuel bowl would empty in 5 to 10 seconds. With the fuel bowl empty, the engine would begin to lose power; as the engine rpm decreases the supercharger boost also decreases and fuel begins to enter the fuel bowl again. The engine power would surge back and the cycle would repeat. The whole cycle would take less than 10 seconds and would continue as long as fuel was available in the fuel system. The cycle could be stopped by pulling the boost cutoff control. If the engine cannot be restarted during an engine failure the boost cutoff control should be pulled.

According to the AFMS, the maximum manifold pressure is 28 inches of mercury. The boost cutoff control is used only in emergency situations whenever both fuel boost pumps become inoperative.

Engine Failure Procedures

If the engine failure in-flight procedures are unsuccessful in restarting the engine, and the low fuel pressure light is illuminated, the AFMS states the following:

Boost Cutoff – Pull Fully
Mixture – Full Rich
Propeller – Full
Throttle – Full
Power – See Warning Below
Follow in-flight low fuel pressure procedures to land as soon as practical

WARNING: To increase power, use the throttle first. When full throttle is reached and more power is needed, slowly push in the boost cutoff control, but no not exceed boost cutoff manifold pressure limitations. To decrease power, pull the boost cutoff control first. When boost cutoff control is out fully and a further reduction in power is needed, use the throttle control to reduce power. If this is not followed, engine power fluctuations may occur. If power fluctuations do occur, pull boost cutoff control out fully and apply full throttle, then continue making power changes as described above.

Excerpts from the AFMS can be found in the public docket associated with this accident report.

JPI Engine Data Monitor (EDM) 700

The EDM was downloaded by the NTSB Recorders Laboratory. The recorded data revealed that the engine parameters were all normal. There were several noticeable voids in the data indicative of electrical power interruptions to the device. The final electrical power interruption occurred from 09:01:47 to 09:04:37, which was during the time of the accident.

The EMD was downloaded again after the engine test runs. The data did not reveal any anomalies and the battery voltage was 13 to 15 volts, which is a normal voltage.

Garmin Aera 796 GPS

The GPS was downloaded by the NTSB Recorders Laboratory. The recorded data revealed 12 sessions, which included the two flights on the accident day. The accident flight data was plotted for geographical representation.

NTSB Identification: CEN16LA270
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Tuesday, July 19, 2016 in Weatherford, TX
Aircraft: CESSNA 182J, registration: N2644F
Injuries: Unavailable

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 July 19, 2016, about 0900 central daylight time, a Cessna 182J, N2644F, experienced a loss of engine power after departure and the pilot conducted a forced landing to a field near Weatherford, Texas. The private rated pilot and one passenger sustained minor injuries, another passenger sustained serious injuries. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The airplane was registered to and operated by a private individual under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight which operated without a flight plan. The flight was departing from Parker County Airport (WEA), Weatherford, TX and was en route to Pecos Municipal Airport (PEQ), Pecos, Texas. 

The pilot reported that he previously departed from Denton Enterprise Airport (DTO), Denton, Texas, which was about 36 miles northeast of WEA. He landed at WEA and his two passengers boarded airplane on the right side while the engine continued to run. He then taxied to the runway and noted that all the instruments showed normal operations, including the engine data monitor (EDM) 700. He applied 10 degrees of flaps for takeoff, noted 29 inches of engine manifold pressure and 2,600 RPM, and lifted off at 60 to 65 mph. After takeoff he retracted the flaps and noticed that the avionics turned off. He cycled the avionics master switch, but the avionics did not turn on again. Seconds later, about 300 to 400 ft above ground level, the engine experienced a total loss of power. He attempted to troubleshoot the loss of power and to restart the engine; the engine restarted for about two seconds and then lost power again. The pilot made a shallow bank towards a field for an emergency landing. During the landing, the airplane collided with a fence and redirected the airplane to the right. The airplane continued into a group of trees and came to rest on a road. When the airplane came to rest, the pilot noted that fuel was pouring all over the occupants. The pilot and two passengers egressed from the airplane. 

A witness to the accident stated he was working in a field north of the accident site when he heard the sound of an airplane engine overhead. He observed the airplane in a descent and it attempted to land in a pasture when it hit a fence in the middle of the pasture. He called 911 and drove to the accident site. He observed three occupants who were already out of the airplane and noticed that fuel was pouring out of the wings onto the ground. 

The photos from the responding Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector revealed that the left wing was folded over the top of the fuselage and the right wing was bent aft. The top of the cabin area had been opened and displaced aft. The fuselage was bent upward near the front seats. 

The airplane has been retained for further examination. The National Transportation Safety Board did not travel to the scene of this accident.

Additional Participating Entities: 
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Fort Worth, Texas 
Textron Aviation; Wichita, Kansas
Continental Motors; Mobile, Alabama

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/N2644F

Location: Weatherford, TX
Accident Number: CEN16LA270
Date & Time: 07/19/2016, 0903 CDT
Registration: N2644F
Aircraft: CESSNA 182J
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of engine power (partial)
Injuries: 1 Serious, 2 Minor
Flight Conducted Under:  Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

On July 19, 2016, at 0903 central daylight time, a Cessna 182J airplane, N2644F, experienced a loss of engine power after departure and the pilot conducted a forced landing to a field near Weatherford, Texas. The private pilot and one passenger sustained minor injuries and the second passenger sustained serious injuries. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight which was operated without a flight plan. The flight was departing from Parker County Airport (WEA), Weatherford, TX, and was en route to Pecos Municipal Airport (PEQ), Pecos, Texas.

The pilot reported that he had departed from Denton Enterprise Airport (DTO), Denton, Texas, which was about 36 miles northeast of WEA. He landed at WEA and two passengers boarded the airplane while the engine continued to operate. He then taxied to the runway and noted that all the instruments showed normal operations, including the JPI engine data monitor (EDM) 700. He extended the flaps 10° for takeoff, increased the engine power to 29 inches of engine manifold pressure and 2,600 rpm, and lifted off at 60 to 65 mph. After takeoff, he retracted the flaps and noticed that the avionics turned off. He cycled the avionics master switch, but the avionics did not turn on again. About 40 seconds after takeoff while 300 to 500 ft above ground level, the engine experienced a loss of power. He attempted to troubleshoot the loss of power and to restart the engine; the engine restarted for about two seconds and then lost power again. The pilot did not remember if the engine ever experienced a total loss of power since he was concentrating on flying the airplane. He also did not remember if he ever pulled the boost cutoff control. He did not continue to troubleshoot the issue since his altitude was low and made a shallow bank towards a field for an emergency landing. During the landing, the airplane collided with a barbed wire fence, continued into a field, impacted several trees and came to rest on a road. When the airplane came to rest, the pilot noted that fuel was pouring out of the fuel tanks all over the occupants. The pilot and two passengers exited the airplane.

A witness, who was working in a field north of the accident site, stated that he heard an airplane engine overhead. He observed the accident airplane in a descent, apparently attempting to land in a pasture when it hit a fence in the middle of the pasture (figure 1). He called 911 and drove to the accident site. He observed three occupants who were already out of the airplane and noticed that fuel was pouring out of the wings onto the ground.

The pilot stated to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, that one of the passengers recalled hearing the engine regain power just before touching down in the field.

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 49, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: Lap Only
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 01/27/2015
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 01/27/2015
Flight Time: 139 hours (Total, this make and model)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Manufacturer: CESSNA
Registration: N2644F
Model/Series: 182J -
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1966
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 18256744
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 06/20/2016, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2800 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 6336.5 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: CONT MOTOR
ELT: Installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: O-470-R25A
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 235 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None 

A Forced Aeromotive Technologies (FAT) supercharger was installed on the airplane in May 2004 under supplemental type certificate (STC) SE10233SC and STC SA10232SC.

On June 20, 2016, an annual inspection was completed at a tachometer time of 2,245.3 hours. During the inspection the maintenance personnel "checked and adjusted supercharger belt as per Force Air Tech service instructions." 

The pilot stated he was not trained of the operation of the supercharger by the manufacturer or the previous airplane owner after he purchased the airplane, nor was he required to do so. 

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KNFW, 608 ft msl
Observation Time: 0852 CDT
Distance from Accident Site: 12 Nautical Miles
Direction from Accident Site: 78°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 25000 ft agl
Temperature/Dew Point: 29°C / 22°C
Lowest Ceiling: 
Visibility:  10 Miles
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 4 knots, 130°
Visibility (RVR): 
Altimeter Setting: 30.21 inches Hg
Visibility (RVV): 
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Weatherford, TX (WEA)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: PECOS, TX (PEQ)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 0901 CDT
Type of Airspace: Class E

Airport Information

Airport: PARKER COUNTY (WEA)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 991 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Unknown
Runway Used: 17
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 2892 ft / 40 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Forced Landing

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Serious, 2 Minor
Latitude, Longitude: 32.727222, -97.682222 (est) 

The responding FAA inspector reported that the left wing was folded over the top of the fuselage and the right wing was bent aft. The top of the cabin area had been opened and displaced aft. The fuselage was bent upward near the front seats. 

Accident airplane

A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine was conducted by the NTSB Investigator-in-Charge (IIC), with technical representatives from Textron Aviation and Continental Motors, after recovery from the accident site. The engine was intact with no noticeable external damage. It was equipped with a FAT belt driven supercharger system that included two fuel boost pumps between the airframe fuel line and the engine carburetor. The top spark plugs and cylinder rocker covers were removed and the crankshaft was manually rotated with continuity confirmed to all cylinders and to the rear of the engine. The chromed cylinders were examined using a lighted borescope; all cylinder domes and pistons exhibited normal combustion deposits. All intake and exhaust valves were in place and free to move; suction and compression was confirmed in each cylinder. The magneto timing was checked and both magnetos were found to be timed at 22° before top dead center, which was normal timing. The top spark plugs exhibited normal wear signatures and dark deposits in the electrode areas. The air intake filter was clean and clear. The oil filter was in place and not damaged. The filter was opened and contained no debris or metal deposits in the filter element. The propeller remained attached to the crankshaft. Both propeller blades were bent and twisted aft and exhibited chordwise scratches and polishing. The cowl flap lever was positioned to OPEN. The carburetor heat control knob was full forward. The boost cutoff control knob was full forward and was not labeled on the instrument panel. The rudder and elevator flight control cables were continuous and undamaged. The left and right wings had been removed during the recovery process. The aileron flight control cables exhibited multiple overload separations. One portion of the left aileron control cable had been cut during the recovery process.

The flap motor was energized with an external battery and operated the flaps normally. The flaps were found extended 10°. Due to impact damage and the displacement of the airplane during recovery the entire electrical system could not be functionally tested.

An engine test run was conducted by the NTSB IIC and technical representatives from Textron Aviation, Continental Motors, and FAT. Prior to the test run procedures, the engine was examined. The gascolator screen was removed and was clean and clear of contaminants. The fuel inlet screen was removed from the carburetor and contained a small amount of multicolor organic material similar to tree leaves. The airplane had been stored outdoors at the storage facility.

An external fuel source was connected to the airframe fuel line and the engine was started and test run several times. The engine operated at full power performance according to the STC operating specifications. The alternator inoperative and low fuel pressure lights were pressed and illuminated as expected. The lights did not illuminate during the engine test runs. The ammeter remained near zero and did not show a discharge.

After the test runs were completed the carburetor was removed and examined. The carburetor was in place and not damaged. The throttle and mixture controls remained connected appropriately and were free to move. The unit was disassembled and the bowl was clean and clear. The floats and needle valve were attached and were free to move. The needle valve seat was clean and clear.

Also following the test runs, the engine cowling was opened to facilitate further examination of the engine compartment. The supercharger drive belt was installed on the idler gear inside out.

Additional Information

FAT Supercharger Information

The Airplane Flight Manual Supplement (AFMS) states that the supercharger supplies boosted engine induction air (figure 3) so it is necessary to boost fuel pressure to ensure an unimpeded flow of fuel through the carburetor. The two fuel pumps supply fuel to the carburetor at the required pressure. Either pump will independently supply sufficient fuel pressure for engine operation, but two are installed to provide backup in case of a pump failure. According to the STC manufacturer, as the fuel level in the carburetor changes, air flows in and out of the fuel bowl through a passage inside the mouth of the carburetor. When the supercharger is installed, this air passage becomes pressurized and at power levels above 1,700 rpm, the pressurized air in the fuel bowl pushes the fuel out and back to the fuel tank. The electric fuel boost pumps counter the air pressure so that the fuel enters the float chamber correctly.

FAT Supercharger Diagram

The AFMS further states that in the event of a complete electrical failure (alternator or battery), the engine can be operated using gravity-fed fuel at un-boosted manifold pressure using the boost cutoff control. When the boost cutoff control is pulled, pressurized air from the supercharger is dumped into the engine compartment before reaching the carburetor. This lowers the carburetor's requirement for pressurized fuel and allows operation as a normally-aspirated engine. The STC owner added that, during a complete electrical system failure, the effect would be the same as turning off the fuel boost pumps. With the fuel boost pumps off and engine power above 1,700 rpm, the carburetor fuel bowl would empty in 5 to 10 seconds. With the fuel bowl empty, the engine would begin to lose power; as the engine rpm decreases the supercharger boost also decreases and fuel begins to enter the fuel bowl again. The engine power would surge back and the cycle would repeat. The whole cycle would take less than 10 seconds and would continue as long as fuel was available in the fuel system. The cycle could be stopped by pulling the boost cutoff control. If the engine cannot be restarted during an engine failure the boost cutoff control should be pulled.

According to the AFMS, the maximum manifold pressure is 28 inches of mercury. The boost cutoff control is used only in emergency situations whenever both fuel boost pumps become inoperative.

Engine Failure Procedures

If the engine failure in-flight procedures are unsuccessful in restarting the engine, and the low fuel pressure light is illuminated, the AFMS states the following:

Boost Cutoff – Pull Fully
Mixture – Full Rich
Propeller – Full
Throttle – Full
Power – See Warning Below
Follow in-flight low fuel pressure procedures to land as soon as practical

WARNING: To increase power, use the throttle first. When full throttle is reached and more power is needed, slowly push in the boost cutoff control, but no not exceed boost cutoff manifold pressure limitations. To decrease power, pull the boost cutoff control first. When boost cutoff control is out fully and a further reduction in power is needed, use the throttle control to reduce power. If this is not followed, engine power fluctuations may occur. If power fluctuations do occur, pull boost cutoff control out fully and apply full throttle, then continue making power changes as described above.

Excerpts from the AFMS can be found in the public docket associated with this accident report.

JPI Engine Data Monitor (EDM) 700

The EDM was downloaded by the NTSB Recorders Laboratory. The recorded data revealed that the engine parameters were all normal. There were several noticeable voids in the data indicative of electrical power interruptions to the device. The final electrical power interruption occurred from 09:01:47 to 09:04:37, which was during the time of the accident.

The EMD was downloaded again after the engine test runs. The data did not reveal any anomalies and the battery voltage was 13 to 15 volts, which is a normal voltage.

Garmin Aera 796 GPS

The GPS was downloaded by the NTSB Recorders Laboratory. The recorded data revealed 12 sessions, which included the two flights on the accident day. The accident flight data was plotted for geographical representation.

NTSB Identification: CEN16LA270
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Tuesday, July 19, 2016 in Weatherford, TX
Aircraft: CESSNA 182J, registration: N2644F
Injuries: Unavailable

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 July 19, 2016, about 0900 central daylight time, a Cessna 182J, N2644F, experienced a loss of engine power after departure and the pilot conducted a forced landing to a field near Weatherford, Texas. The private rated pilot and one passenger sustained minor injuries, another passenger sustained serious injuries. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The airplane was registered to and operated by a private individual under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight which operated without a flight plan. The flight was departing from Parker County Airport (WEA), Weatherford, TX and was en route to Pecos Municipal Airport (PEQ), Pecos, Texas. 

The pilot reported that he previously departed from Denton Enterprise Airport (DTO), Denton, Texas, which was about 36 miles northeast of WEA. He landed at WEA and his two passengers boarded airplane on the right side while the engine continued to run. He then taxied to the runway and noted that all the instruments showed normal operations, including the engine data monitor (EDM) 700. He applied 10 degrees of flaps for takeoff, noted 29 inches of engine manifold pressure and 2,600 RPM, and lifted off at 60 to 65 mph. After takeoff he retracted the flaps and noticed that the avionics turned off. He cycled the avionics master switch, but the avionics did not turn on again. Seconds later, about 300 to 400 ft above ground level, the engine experienced a total loss of power. He attempted to troubleshoot the loss of power and to restart the engine; the engine restarted for about two seconds and then lost power again. The pilot made a shallow bank towards a field for an emergency landing. During the landing, the airplane collided with a fence and redirected the airplane to the right. The airplane continued into a group of trees and came to rest on a road. When the airplane came to rest, the pilot noted that fuel was pouring all over the occupants. The pilot and two passengers egressed from the airplane. 

A witness to the accident stated he was working in a field north of the accident site when he heard the sound of an airplane engine overhead. He observed the airplane in a descent and it attempted to land in a pasture when it hit a fence in the middle of the pasture. He called 911 and drove to the accident site. He observed three occupants who were already out of the airplane and noticed that fuel was pouring out of the wings onto the ground. 

The photos from the responding Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector revealed that the left wing was folded over the top of the fuselage and the right wing was bent aft. The top of the cabin area had been opened and displaced aft. The fuselage was bent upward near the front seats. 

The airplane has been retained for further examination.





Three men were transported to the hospital Tuesday morning following a plane crash south of the Parker County Airport. 

The Texas Department of Public Safety responded to the report of a downed plane around 9 a.m.

The three plane occupants, ages 51, 49 and 25, were transported to John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Wort with undisclosed injuries, according to DPS. 

Their names were not released. 

The plane, a fixed-wing, single-engine Cessna 182J Skylane, appeared to have come to rest in the middle of Tackett Lane underneath several trees, with a bent wing and other obvious damage. 

The Federal Aviation Administration investigator was en route to the scene, according to DPS. 

David Byrom, of Aubrey, along with Lynn Singletary, were listed as the owners of the plane. 

Source:   http://www.weatherforddemocrat.com






Officials with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers were notified at 9 a. m. Tuesday of a downed aircraft on Tackett Lane, south of the Parker County Airport, just off of Bankhead Highway.

There were three occupants on board at the time of the incident. All three males, ages 51, 49, and 25, were transported to John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth with undisclosed injuries.

The aircraft is a Cessna 182J Skylane, fixed wing, single engine.

The Federal Aviation Administration has an investigator en route to the scene to conduct an investigation. DPS troopers will remain at the location to secure the scene.

Source: http://www.star-telegram.com





WEATHERFORD — Three people were transported to a Fort Worth hospital after a Cessna 182J Skylane plane crashed on Tackett Lane, just south of the Parker County Airport.

According to Lonny Haschel, a spokesman with the Texas Department of Public Safety, all three were men, ages 51, 49, and 25. Authorities haven't released their identities or their conditions. 

The FAA is investigating the crash.

Nelson Woody, personal flight conducted under the provisions of Federal Code of Regulations Part 91, N525AG: Accident occurred July 18, 2016 at Hope Municipal Airport (M18), Hempstead County, Arkansas

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

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Little Rock, Arkansas  

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/N525AG

Location: Hope, AR
Accident Number: CEN16LA271
Date & Time: 07/18/2016, 0930 CST
Registration: N525AG
Aircraft: GERALD NELSON NELSON WOODY
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On July 18, 2016, about 0930 central standard time, a Nelson Woody homebuilt, tailwheel-equipped, experimental airplane, N525AG, registered to the pilot, sustained substantial damage after veering off the runway during landing rollout at the Hope Municipal Airport (M18), Hope, Arkansas. The private pilot sustained serious injuries and one passenger sustained minor injuries. The personal flight was being conducted under the provisions of Federal Code of Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed throughout the vicinity and a flight plan was not filed. The flight originated from M18 about 0900.

According to the pilot, he was conducting touch and go landings at M18 on runway 16. Upon a normal touchdown, the aircraft veered to the left off the runway surface. There were ground impressions of the left wingtip and propeller marks on the ground. Evidence showed that the airplane ground looped as it departed the runway. Both occupants exited the aircraft and the pilot was transported to a local hospital for his injuries.

Examination of the airplane by an FAA inspector after the accident revealed that the left wing was bent downward mid-span about 90-degrees, and the fuselage was buckled. The left main landing gear retaining mechanism was found broken. It was not clear if the damage was pre or post impact. The pilot, who was the builder of the airplane and had about 500 hours of flight time in the airplane, reported that he believed that the retaining mechanism could have broken upon landing resulting in the ground loop.

The nearest weather reporting station, located in Texarkana, Arkansas, about 30 miles from the accident site, reported clear skies and variable winds at 4 knots. Local personnel located at the airport reported that it was a nice day with light winds on the day of the accident. 

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 84, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 None
Last FAA Medical Exam: 10/16/2007
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 1500 hours (Total, all aircraft), 500 hours (Total, this make and model), 1 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: GERALD NELSON
Registration: N525AG
Model/Series: NELSON WOODY NO SERIES
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture:
Amateur Built: Yes
Airworthiness Certificate: Experimental
Serial Number: 2281
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection:  Unknown
Certified Max Gross Wt.:
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time:
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: Not installed
Engine Model/Series: O-290
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 120 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None 

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: TXK
Distance from Accident Site: 30 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1016 CDT
Direction from Accident Site: 275°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 3700 ft agl
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 4 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: /
Wind Direction: Variable
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: /
Altimeter Setting: 30.2 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 33°C / 22°C
Precipitation and Obscuration:
Departure Point: Hope, AR (M18)
Type of Flight Plan Filed:
Destination: Hope, AR (M18)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: CST
Type of Airspace:

Airport Information

Airport: Hope Municipal Airport (M18)
Runway Surface Type: Concrete
Airport Elevation: 359 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 16
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5501 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Touch and Go

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Serious
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor
Latitude, Longitude: 33.723889, -93.655278

NTSB Identification: CEN16LA271
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Monday, July 18, 2016 in Hope, AR
Aircraft: GERALD NELSON NELSON WOODY, registration: N525AG
Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor.

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 July 18, 2016, about 0930 central standard time, a Nelson Woody homebuilt experimental airplane, N525AG, registered to the pilot, sustained substantial damage after veering off the runway during landing rollout at the Hope Municipal Airport (M18), Hope, Arkansas. The private pilot sustained serious injuries and one passenger sustained minor injuries. The personal flight was being conducted under the provisions of Federal Code of Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed throughout the vicinity and a flight plan was not filed. The flight originated from M18 about 0900.

According to local responders, the airplane was conducting touch and go landings at M18 on runway 16. Upon a normal touchdown, the aircraft veered to the left off the runway surface. There were ground impressions of the left wingtip striking the ground and propeller marks on the ground. Evidence showed that the airplane bounced after it departed the runway and impacted the ground resulting in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. Both occupants exited the aircraft and the pilot was transported to a local hospital for his injuries.

AIRCRAFT, EXPERIMENTAL WOODY, ON LANDING WENT OFF THE RUNWAY AND BROKE APART, HOPE, ARKANSAS. 


UPDATE - Both men remain hospitalized with broken bones and lacerations.


HOPE – A small aircraft crash just before noon Monday, injured two men with non-life threatening injuries.


Details on what caused the crash are unavailable as of now; whether a FAA or NTSB investigation will be required is unknown at this time.


Both men were transported to local hospitals.