Saturday, November 18, 2017

Poplar Grove Airport (C77): World War I biplane project getting off the ground



POPLAR GROVE — The team building a World War I-era biplane remains on track to get the craft in the air sometime in 2020.

Nine aviation experts at the Poplar Grove Airport have been using original 1916 blueprints to build from scratch a fully functional 1916 Curtiss JN-4D biplane, known as a “Jenny.”

The planes originally were built by the Curtiss Aerospace Company in Buffalo, New York, and were flown by North American pilots when the United States entered the war in 1917. After the war, the Jenny was used by barnstormers and mail carriers and even flown by Amelia Earhart.

This new Jenny will be powered by a 100-year-old engine and will have no electrical system, starter or brakes — just like the original.

Since June, the volunteers have acquired parts and assembled portions of the $75,000 plane.

“I’m very excited about the progress,” said project manager Don Perry of Chicago. “Last time, it was just a stack of wood. Now there are wings and instruments.”

Here’s a look at how the project is shaping up.




Wings

You can’t have an airplane without wings, and the Jenny’s are taking shape.

So far, the top two wings on the biplane have been built and are ready for the fabric covering. It took six months to cut the wings from a wood pattern and bolt them together.

“The time it took to make the pieces was short,” said Frank Herdzina, a Poplar Grove resident and airport volunteer. “It took more time to assemble than it did cutting them out.”

The team has been meticulous about measuring the wings.

“Measurements are important,” said Steve Langdon, a Rockford resident who volunteers at the airport. “The more precise it is, the better it will fly.”

Fuselage

Attached to the wings is the fuselage, where the pilot sits and maneuvers the plane.

“It’s the main body,” Langdon said. “Everything (connects) to it.”

The sides of the 23-1/2-foot fuselage frame have been constructed. Crews are building the fuselage upside down because it’s easier to work that way.




Tailfeathers

The tail of the Jenny will contain five main components: fin, rudder, horizontal stabilizer and two elevators. So far, volunteers have constructed a rudder and two horizontal stabilizers, one of which “will go on display in the museum,” volunteer Dave McAllister said.

Instruments

The team has acquired a compass, tachometer, altimeter and clock for the fuselage. Unlike the rest of the plane, however, no assembly was required. The instruments came fully intact from an aviation-restoration organization in California.

Engine

Volunteers acquired an eight-cylinder, 500-cubic-inch, 90-horsepower OX-5 Curtiss engine believed to be about 100 years old and used in other biplanes. It will power the newly built Jenny — after it is sent to Virginia for overhaul. The engine arrived from Alva, Oklahoma, a couple of weeks ago.

“We have been keeping track of it for the last 14 months,” Perry said. “When it finally became available, we snatched it up.”

Said Langdon, “All the pieces (of the engine) need to be reworked and made airworthy.”

Story and photo gallery ➤ http://www.rrstar.com

Maule MX-7-235 Star Rocket, C-GMCY: Incident occurred November 18, 2017 near Langley Regional Airport, British Columbia, Canada







The occupants of a plane were uninjured when it made an landing in a farmer’s field adjacent to the Langley Regional Airport Saturday morning.

A witness said the Langley Township fire department was dispatched at about 11:30 a.m. on Nov. 18 for an aircraft crash south of the Langley airport on Fraser Highway.

Crews arrived to find a small aircraft had made an emergency landing in a field nearby after engine failure.

Two occupants were uninjured.

Story, video and photos ➤ https://www.langleyadvance.com

Beech B-55 Baron, N592SS, LGM Services LLC: Accident occurred November 17, 2017 at Statesville Regional Airport (KSVH), Iredell County, North Carolina

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

Additional participating entity:

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Charlotte, North Carolina

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


LGM Services LLC: http://registry.faa.gov/N592SS

Location: Statesville, NC

Accident Number: ERA18LA038
Date & Time: 11/17/2017, 1215 EST
Registration: N592SS
Aircraft: BEECH B 55
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On November 17, 2017, about 1215 eastern standard time, a Beech B55, N592SS, was substantially damaged during takeoff from Statesville Regional Airport (SVH), Statesville, North Carolina. The private pilot and flight instructor were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan was filed for the instructional flight. The flight was operated by the private pilot under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.

According to the private pilot, he was conducting a flight review with the flight instructor, who was also his friend. They departed SVH and flew to a practice area where he conducted several maneuvers. The private pilot landed at another airport, where he conducted a full-stop landing and two short-field takeoffs. They then flew back to SVH, where he conducted the instrument landing system approach to runway 28 and a circle-to-land approach on runway 10. Upon landing on runway 10, the private pilot raised the flaps and slowly applied full power on both throttles for a touch-and-go landing. Both engines were producing full power and he rotated just above 90 knots indicated airspeed. The airplane lifted off and began a positive rate of climb. At that time, the airplane yawed hard to the left and he noticed a change in engine sound. The airplane began to descend, bounced on the runway, and collided with a ditch, before skidding to a stop on the edge of the taxiway.

Initial examination of the airplane revealed that the fuselage was substantially damaged. The airplane was retained for further examination. 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Manufacturer: BEECH
Registration: N592SS
Model/Series: B 55 A
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: No
Operator: LGM SERVICES LLC
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None 

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: SVH, 967 ft msl
Observation Time: 1305 EST
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 13°C / 5°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: Calm
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility:  10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 30.15 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Statesville, NC (SVH)
Destination: Statesville, NC (SVH) 

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None
Latitude, Longitude:  35.766111, -80.965556 (est)



A crane tipped over while recovering a small plane that was damaged after a hard landing Friday at the Statesville Regional Airport, according to officials.

The plane, a twin-engine Beechcraft Baron, had a hard landing in the afternoon, according to Statesville Fire Chief Spencer Lee.

Neither the pilot nor the passenger were injured.

The plane was attempting a touch-and-go landing when the left engine failed, causing the aircraft to shift hard to the side and run across the airfield. The landing gear was sheared off.

An FAA investigator arrived to inspect the crash.

The Statesville Fire Department and N.C. Highway Patrol responded to the scene.

Officials planned to use the crane from towing company Pro-Tow to help get the plane to a hangar for repair, Lee said.

During the operation, the crane toppled over. The crane leaked hydraulic fluid and diesel fuel onto the taxiway, according to Airport Manager John Ferguson.

It took several hours for Pro-Tow to right the crane, Ferguson said. The plane was eventually moved to a hangar.

Pro-Tow will help clean up the spill, according to Lee.

At no part of the day was the runway closed and the airport remained fully operational.

“Just one heck of a day,” Ferguson said.

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

Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, Tropic Air: Accident occurred November 17, 2017 at Placencia Airport, Belize




Eleven passengers onboard a Tropic Air flight en route to Punta Gorda from Placencia were rescued from the sea this morning. The aircraft was taking off around 8:45 this morning when it struck an SUV that was at the end of the runway. The impact caused the pilot to lose airspeed and the aircraft veered into the sea. All passengers were safely removed from the water including Acting Prime Minister Patrick Faber along with Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development and Immigration Godwin Hulse. Dalila Ical has more details.

A routine flight from Placencia to Punta Gorda turned into a harrowing experience for passengers onboard a Tropic Air flight this morning.

As the small plane was taking off from the Placencia airstrip its left landing wheel made contact with an SUV that was on the road near the airstrip. The impact veered the plane into the sea. A couple that was at the airstrip to see some people off witnessed the incident.

Witness 1
“The first flight left they got off high, the second flight came in and this landing on went long but that one didn’t and cars kept coming around the corner and I said that plane is going to hit that vehicle and sure enough boom right there it hit it; the landing gear hit the van on the top of the roof.”



Witness 2
“We heard some rattling on the plane itself as it was continuing to fly and then it landed which appeared very safely in the water.”

The couple then rushed to the SUV and found two men inside. They described the state they were in after the impact.

Witness 1
“The passenger door was crushed in, the driver’s side we were able to get that door open and get him moved around but he was in shock. I went around and we tried to get the passenger door open, we finally got that open and got the passenger out and brought him right over here to sit him down in the shade, he was covered in blood and glass.”

Inside the plane were seven passengers including Acting Prime Minister Patrick Faber along with Minister Godwin Hulse. Tropic Air’s President John Grief III said four crew members were also on board.

John Grief III – Tropic Air’s President


“The subsequent loss of lift and airspeed caused the pilot to have to ditch in the ocean.”


Reporter

“How many passengers were on board?”

John Grief III – Tropic Air’s President

“It was a pilot and ten passengers three of which were Tropic Aircrew.”

Boats arrived shortly to rescue all eleven persons. No major injuries have been reported.


Witness 1

“It took a little bit but then eventually boats got out there and he belly landed the plane just perfectly, did a great landing and I think that is why there are no fatalities out there.”

When speaking with Grief, he stated that no vehicles should have been near the path of the airplane, so what went wrong? Eyewitnesses said one of two barriers that prevent vehicles from passing when aircrafts are landing or taking off did not go down.


Grief says the incident brings to light a hazard that has always concerned them.





John Grief III – Tropic Air’s President


“It’s always been a concerned and barriers were put there by the Belize Airport Authority and signage but the problem is that drivers ignore the situation sometimes and then this is what happens. It's the first time there’s been a loss of an aircraft as a result of vehicles crossing in front, vehicles have crossed in front of aircraft and either touched or come very close to touching. I frankly can’t recall either but it has been an issue in the past.”


The aircraft was almost completely submerged in the water and is a complete loss to the company.  Police and Civil Aviation personnel are investigating the incident. Tropic Air has also launched an investigation into the matter.


A release issued by Tropic Air states that the company in coordination with the Belize Airports Authority and the Belize Department of Civil Aviation are investigating how the vehicle passed in front of the departing aircraft and what measures need to be implemented immediately to prevent its reoccurrence. Tropic also noted that the incident was quote, “in no way a reflection of Tropic Air’s operational, maintenance or business practices”.


Original article can be found here ➤ http://lovefm.com


Government issued a statement saying, "Upon takeoff from the Placencia Airstrip, the left landing wheel made contact with a passing vehicle that had managed to bypass one of the lowered barriers." 

Tropic Air's release says,  "Tropic Air in coordination with the Belize Airports Authority and the Belize Department of Civil Aviation are looking at how this vehicle passed in front of the departing aircraft and what measures need to be implemented immediately to prevent another such occurrence."

That's what we spoke to Tropic Air President John Greif about today via telephone from San Pedro:...

John Greif, President - Tropic Air
"The driver went past the warnings, and apparently past cars that were parked waiting for us to depart, so...we really don't know what we could have done differently."

Jules Vasquez, reporter
"What would you say about the skill of the pilot?"

John Greif
"Well somebody said he's the Sully of Belize. Because it took an incredibly skillful pilot to, have practically no time, being only feet above the water to make a safe landing."

Jules Vasquez, reporter
"How do we prevent a recurrence?"

John Greif
"Well, Jules, that's really where we need to dig deeper. We had thought that there were enough safety barriers in place to prevent this from happening. But obviously, we were wrong, so, I think as a community the aviation community has to, take a hard look at this."

Jules Vasquez, reporter
"Let's speak about the, the barrier itself. Was it assuredly working at the time of this morning's accident?"

John Greif
"I've gotten both reports, Jules. There are two of em: one of them is on the north side, and one on the south side of the runway. And I've gotten some reports that only the south one went down, but then I've also got reports that they both went down, so...I really, can't comment on that."

Jules Vasquez, reporter
"Does Tropic Air need to exercise more vigilance in terms of assigning a staffer, to actually be there with a manual direction, or stopping of traffic in the event that the barriers aren't working reliably?"

John Greif
"But if there were no barriers at all, there are plenty of signs warning of low flying aircraft and don't traverse this point without checking to see if the runway is clear. And as I said it is my understanding that there were other drivers that were stopped and waiting for us to depart."

Jules Vasquez, reporter
"Is there any thought on perhaps moving the switch. I know the switch is not remote and you actually have to go into a box to open it and the box is a little ways off. We always have to factor in the human element, that sometimes people are lazy and just say "man, it's alright.""

John Greif
"Yep, that would certainly be a solution. To put the switch on the barrier itself and then if the barrier doesn't go down, the operator stays there and physically blocks the traffic."

Jules Vasquez, reporter
"And are you certain that that did not happen in this case? Insofar as, maybe it was just a neglect of responsibility and just saying, man, "it will be ok," and then, the unexpected occurs."

John Greif
"Knowing that staff there, Jules, that staff is one of our groups of stars, so I doubt that would have been the case, but like I said, I've gotten conflicting reports and having not seen it or there being no video available I really couldn't say."

Jules Vasquez, reporter
"What sort of emotional rollercoaster did you go through this morning?"

John Greif
"It's a real emotional rollercoaster. Because the first thing you think of is anybody hurt, are there any fatalities? Are there any injuries? And then an incredible surge of relief when you find out that not only were there no fatalities, but there were no serious injuries. So, it's a real emotional rollercoaster."

Greif says that all the passengers were assessed to be "ok", and a few of the passengers wanted to see Doctors in Belize which the airline facilitated.

We could not get comment from the Civil Aviation Department.


Original article can be found here ➤ http://www.7newsbelize.com

Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee, personal flight operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91, N8758N: Accident occurred November 18, 2017 near Bladenboro Airport (3W6), Bladen County, North Carolina

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

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Greensboro, North Carolina

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

http://registry.faa.gov/N8758N

Location: Bladenboro, NC
Accident Number: ERA18LA026
Date & Time: 11/18/2017, 1110 EST
Registration: N8758N
Aircraft: PIPER PA28
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of engine power (partial)
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On November 18, 2017, about 1110 eastern standard time, a Piper PA28-140, N8758N, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Bladenboro, North Carolina. The private pilot and passenger were not injured. Day, visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan was filed for the local, personal flight that departed Bladenboro Airport (3W6). The flight was operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.

In interview with a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector the pilot stated that after takeoff from runway 20, he circled to land on runway 02, but then initiated a go-around. On the downwind leg of the traffic pattern to runway 02, the engine experienced a partial loss of power. He applied carburetor heat, but it did not restore power to the engine. The airplane was unable to reach the runway and the pilot elected to land in a small field.

Examination of the airplane by an FAA inspector revealed damage to the engine mounts, and wing leading edges. The propeller was manually rotated, and a spark was produced on all spark plug leads. Both fuel tanks were more than half-full of uncontaminated fuel. A mud dauber nest was observed in the carburetor heat control box, which prevented the carburetor heat valve from fully opening.

The four-seat, low-wing airplane was manufactured in 1969 and was equipped with a Lycoming O-360, 180-horsepower reciprocating engine. The most recent annual was completed on September 26, 2017.

The pilot held a private pilot certificate with an airplane single-engine land rating. He reported 60 hours of total flight experience on his most recent application for an FAA third-class medical certificate, which was issued on March 9, 2015.

The weather conditions reported at the Columbus County Municipal Airport (CPC), Whiteville, North Carolina, which was located about 16 miles south of the accident site, included wind from 180° at 7 knots, visibility 10 statute miles, ceiling broken at 5,500 ft, temperature 18° C, dew point 10° C, and an altimeter setting of 30.03 inches of mercury.

An FAA carburetor icing probability chart indicated the temperature and dew point conditions were conducive to the formation of serious icing at glide power. 

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 56, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s):None 
Restraint Used: Unknown
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: 03/09/2015
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 02/19/2017
Flight Time: 600 hours (Total, all aircraft) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: PIPER
Registration: N8758N
Model/Series: PA28 140
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1969
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 28-25579
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 09/26/2017, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.:
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 4334 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT:
Engine Model/Series: O-360
Registered Owner: Bladenboro Aviation
Rated Power: 180 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: KCPC, 98 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 16 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1105 EST
Direction from Accident Site: 169°
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 5500 ft agl
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 7 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: /
Wind Direction: 180°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: /
Altimeter Setting: 30.03 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 18°C / 10°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Bladenboro, NC (3W6)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Bladenboro, NC (3W6)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time:1100 EST 
Type of Airspace: Unknown

Airport Information

Airport: BLADENBORO (3W6)
Runway Surface Type: Grass/turf
Airport Elevation: 116 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: N/A
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width:
VFR Approach/Landing: Forced Landing

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None 
Total Injuries: 2 None

Latitude, Longitude: 34.549167, -78.776667 (est)
=========

Location: Bladenboro, NC
Accident Number: ERA18LA026
Date & Time: 11/18/2017, 1110 EST
Registration: N8758N
Aircraft: PIPER PA28
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On November 18, 2017, about 1110 eastern standard time, a Piper PA28-140, N8758N, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Bladenboro, North Carolina. The private pilot and passenger were not injured. Day, visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan was filed for the local, personal flight that departed Bladenboro Airport (3W6). The flight was operated by the pilot under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.

In interview with a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector the pilot stated that after takeoff from runway 20, he circled to land on runway 02, but then initiated a go-around. On the downwind leg of the traffic pattern to runway 02, the engine experienced a partial loss of engine power. He turned on the carburetor heat, but it did not restore power to the engine. The airplane was unable to reach the runway, and the pilot elected to land in a small field.

Examination of the airplane by an FAA inspector revealed damage to the engine mounts, and wing leading edges. The propeller was manually rotated, and a spark was produced on all spark plug leads. Both fuel tanks were more than half-full of uncontaminated fuel. A mud dauber nest was observed in the carburetor heat control box, which prevented the carburetor heat valve from fully opening.

The four-seat, low-wing airplane was manufactured in 1969 and was equipped with a Lycoming O-360, 180-horsepower reciprocating engine.

The pilot held a private pilot certificate with an airplane single-engine land rating. He reported 60 hours of total flight experience on his most recent application for an FAA third-class medical certificate, which was issued on March 9, 2015.

The weather conditions reported at the Columbus County Municipal Airport (CPC), Whiteville, North Carolina, which was located about 16 miles south of the accident site, included wind from 180° at 7 knots, visibility 10 statute miles, ceiling broken at 5,500 ft, temperature 18° C, dew point 10° C, and an altimeter setting of 30.03 inches of mercury.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Manufacturer: PIPER
Registration: N8758N
Model/Series: PA28 140
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: No
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: KCPC, 98 ft msl
Observation Time: 1605 UTC
Distance from Accident Site: 16 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 18°C / 10°C
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 7 knots, 180°
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 5500 ft agl
Visibility:  10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 30.03 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Bladenboro, NC (3W6)
Destination: Bladenboro, NC (3W6) 

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None
Latitude, Longitude: 34.549167, -78.776667 (est)











BLADENBORO, NC (WECT) - The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating after a small plane crashed in Bladenboro.

According to Bladen County Emergency Director, Bradley Kinlaw, the crash happened around 11:20 a.m. on Saturday.

Kinlaw said it was a single-engine plane.

An officer with the Bladenboro Police Department said the plane was being operated by Robert Hester and his son, Eddie Hester. Both were able to escape the crash with no injuries. 

Sheriff Jim McVicker said the plane crashed into the pine trees off of highway 131 near the Hardee's in Bladenboro. 

Robert and Eddie said they had a normal takeoff. They had only been in the air for about five minutes and were coming down for landing when Eddie said the plane started losing power.

"The motor just started bogging and I had no power," Eddie said.

The two said the plane skidded when it crashed into the woods.

Eddie says he has plans to fly his second plane later Saturday. 

Story and photo gallery ➤ http://www.wect.com

Embraer E145, N698CB, operated by American Airlines Group as ENY3084 -and- Bombardier CRJ-700, N154GJ, operated by GoJet Airlines as GJS3710: Incident occurred February 17, 2015 at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (KORD), Chicago, Illinois

The National Transportation Safety Board traveled to the scene of this incident.

Additional Participating Entities:
Federal Aviation Administration Compliances Services Group AJI-131; Atlanta, Georgia
National Air Traffic Controllers Assoc. (NATCA); New York, New York

OPS15IA011A  Aviation Incident Preliminary Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

OPS15IA011B   Aviation Incident Preliminary Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

American Airlines Inc: http://registry.faa.gov/N698CB

AFS Investments 73 LLC:  http://registry.faa.gov/N154GJ

NTSB Identification: OPS15IA011A
Incident occurred Tuesday, February 17, 2015 in Chicago, IL
Aircraft: EMBRAER EMB 145LR, registration:
Injuries: 113 Uninjured.

NTSB Identification: OPS15IA011B
Incident occurred Tuesday, February 17, 2015 in Chicago, IL
Aircraft: BOMBARDIER INC CL 600 2C10, registration:
Injuries: 113 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 used data provided by various sources and may have traveled in support of this investigation to prepare this aircraft incident report.

On February 17, 2015, at 2145 central standard time (CST), a runway incursion occurred at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Chicago, Illinois, when a Bombardier CRJ-700, N154GJ, entered runway 28R at taxiway F while an Embraer E145, N698CB, was on takeoff roll on runway 28R from intersection EE. The CRJ-700 was operated by GoJet Airlines as GJS3710 and the E145 was operated by American Airlines Group as ENY3084. Both flights were operating under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 121. Night visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no damage or injuries were reported.

Press Release: Federal Aviation Administration Proposes $72,400 Civil Penalty against Gem Air

WASHINGTON --  The U.S. Department of Transportations Federal Aviation Administration proposes a $72,400 civil penalty against Gem Air of Salmon, Idaho, for allegedly operating three aircraft when required inspections were overdue.

The inspections in question are mandated by Federal Aviation Administration airworthiness directives. The agency alleges the charter company:

Operated a Cessna T206H for 8.7 hours in August 2016 when a periodic inspection of a fuel-injector line was overdue.

Operated a Quest Kodiak 100 for 24.2 hours in January and February 2017 when a periodic inspection of an elevator control mechanism was overdue.

Operated a Piper PA-31-350 for 246.1 hours between December 2015 and March 2017 when a periodic inspection of certain engine cowling components was overdue for one engine; and operated the aircraft for 198.8 hours between January 2016 and March 2017 when the inspection was overdue for the other engine.

Operated the Piper PA-31-350 for 246.1 hours between December 2015 and March 2017 when periodic inspections of the engine exhaust systems were overdue.

The Federal Aviation Administration also alleges Gem Air failed to keep a record of the current status of applicable airworthiness directives for the Piper PA-31-350.

Gem Air has asked to meet with the Federal Aviation Administration to discuss the case.

Original article can be found here ➤ https://www.einpresswire.com

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



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

http://registry.faa.gov/N95R

Location: Carlsbad, NM
Accident Number: CEN16LA202
Date & Time: 05/29/2016, 1100 MDT
Registration: N95R
Aircraft: Harry Oas Pitts S1C
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

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. 

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial
Age: 35, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Single
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 5-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 2 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 09/30/2014
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:  740 hours (Total, all aircraft), 5 hours (Total, this make and model), 662 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 16 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 12 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 0 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Harry Oas
Registration: N95R
Model/Series: Pitts S1C
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1967
Amateur Built: Yes
Airworthiness Certificate: Experimental
Serial Number: OAS-1
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 1
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 07/01/2015, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1050 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 5 Hours
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 934.6 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: Installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: O-320
Registered Owner: Eric N Sorensen
Rated Power: 150 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: CNM, 3295 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 1 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1053 MDT
Direction from Accident Site: 360°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility: 10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 10 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: /
Wind Direction: 160°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: /
Altimeter Setting: 30.11 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 27°C / 17°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Big Spring, TX (BPG)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Carlsbad, NM (CNM)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1035 CDT
Type of Airspace: Class E

Airport Information

Airport: Cavern City Air Terminal (CNM)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 3295 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 14L
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 4616 ft / 150 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full Stop; Traffic Pattern

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None
Latitude, Longitude: 32.337500, 104.263333 (est)

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.

One year later: investigation continues into cause of medical flight crash

Piper PA-31T Cheyenne II, N779MF, American Medflight Inc: Fatal accident occurred November 18, 2016 near Elko Regional Airport (KEKO), Nevada 
Tiffany Urresti, Flight Nurse


Flight paramedic Jake Shepherd

Patient Edward Clohesey




ELKO – In the year since an American Medflight plane crashed in the Barrick parking lot off Mountain City Highway and killed four people there is still no word from the National Transportation and Safety Board on how the accident occurred, but there has been scrutiny of Piper PA-31T planes by federal flight officials.

Within a nine-month period there were three fatal crashes of that make and model of plane — one in California on July 29, 2016; the one in Elko on Nov. 18, 2016; and one in Portugal on April 17, 2017. The accident in Portugal happened shortly after take-off, killing all on board and one person on the ground.

The Piper PA-31T was the subject of an urgent safety recommendation by the NTSB in January that asked the Federal Aviation Administration to issue an airworthiness directive to correct unsafe wiring found after the California crash, which also involved a medical transport plane.

In that recommendation, the NTSB referred to the preliminary report on the crash of Piper PA-31T that took off from Crescent City and went down near the Oregon border, killing four, including the pilot, patient, paramedic and flight nurse. Authorities said the pilot had reported smoke from the cockpit and decided to turn back.

The FAA issued the airworthiness directive Feb. 22, stating it was “to correct the unsafe conditions on these products” and “was prompted by a fatal accident where evidence of thermal damage in this area was found.”

“This condition, if not corrected, could lead to electrical arcing and a possible inflight fire in an area that is not accessible by the crew,” the FFA said.

Patient Edward Clohesey, pilot Yuji Irie, paramedic Jacob Shepherd and flight nurse Tiffany Urresti died Nov. 18 when their medical transport plane went down shortly after taking off from Elko Regional Airport.

A preliminary NTSB report filed Nov. 30, 2016 said a witness at the airport noticed that “[d]uring the initial climb … the airplane made an initial left turn about 30 degrees from the runway heading, then stopped climbing and made an abrupt left bank and descended out of his line of sight.”

The report noted that there were clear skies, a temperature of 33 degrees Fahrenheit and wind direction of 110 degrees at 7 knots.

“The crash is still undergoing investigation,” an NTSB spokesman said last week. On its website, the NTSB states “the cause may not be determined 12 to 18 months after the accident.”

After the accident, Capt. Irie was praised by Elko Police Lt. Rich Genseal for maneuvering the plane toward the parking lot and avoiding populated areas and businesses.

“The plane came down in a parking lot that’s probably only several hundred feet from the apartment complex, multiple dwellings,” Genseal said at the time.

City Manager Curtis Calder agreed that Irie’s actions prevented a greater tragedy that night.

“Although the City of Elko has not seen a final report from the NTSB, we believe the heroic actions of the pilot and crew members saved numerous lives on the ground,” Calder said this week.

He said the accident also highlighted the importance of emergency first responders and medical aviation services in the area.

“Emergency air medical transport services are not only an important part of our local healthcare system, but a critical aviation source,” Calder said. “As such our community was greatly impacted by last year’s American Medflight crash and the resulting loss of life.”

“We are grateful to our emergency first responders and federal officials who perform difficult work under adverse conditions,” he added.

Original article can be found here ➤ http://elkodaily.com











The National Transportation Safety Board traveled to the scene of this accident. 

Aviation Accident Preliminary Report  -  National Transportation Safety Board:   http://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

American Medflight Inc: http://registry.faa.gov/N779MF

NTSB Identification: WPR17FA024
Nonscheduled 14 CFR Part 135: Air Taxi & Commuter
Accident occurred Friday, November 18, 2016 in Elko, NV
Aircraft: PIPER PA 31T, registration: N779MF
Injuries: 4 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 either traveled in support of this investigation or conducted a significant amount of investigative work without any travel, and used data obtained from various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.

On November 18, 2016, about 1920 Pacific standard time, a twin-engine, turbine powered, Piper PA-31T "Cheyenne II" airplane, N779MF, was destroyed when it impacted terrain following a loss of control during initial climb from the Elko Regional Airport, Elko, Nevada. The pilot, two medical crewmembers and one patient sustained fatal injuries. The airplane was being operated as an instrument flight rules (IFR) air transport medical flight by American Med Flight, Inc. under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 135. Night, visual meteorological conditions prevailed and an FAA instrument flight plan was filed but had not been activated for the intended flight to Salt Lake City, Utah.

During a telephone conversation with a National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigator, a witness located at the Elko Airport, reported that the airplane departed runway 06. During the initial climb, he stated that the airplane made an initial left turn about 30 degrees from the runway heading, then stopped climbing and made an abrupt left bank and descended out of his line of sight. 

The airplane impacted into a parking lot about .5 miles from the departure end of the runway, and immediately burst into flames. Several secondary explosions happened after impact as a result of fire damage to medical compressed gas bottles and several vehicles that were consumed by the post impact fire. The airplane sustained extensive thermal damage from the postcrash fire. All major structural components of the airplane were located within the wreckage.

The wreckage was recovered to a secure location, and detailed examinations of the airframe and engines are pending.

The closest weather reporting facility is the Elko Regional Airport (EKO). At 1856, an aviation routine weather report (METAR) at EKO reported wind 110 degrees at 7 knots; visibility 10 statute miles; clear skies; temperature 33 degrees F; dew point 19 degrees F; altimeter 30.11 inHg.