Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Transport Canada says Island Express Air contravened federal regulations: Airline grounded following incident; daily flights from Qualicum Beach supposed to start March 5th

Beechcraft B100 King Air, C-GIAE


The operator of the plane that slid off the runway at Abbotsford International Airport was fined $30,000 last year for repeatedly allowing improperly maintained aircraft to take off.

Transport Canada announced Wednesday that it had suspended Island Express Air’s air operator certificate due to last week’s accident and “contraventions of the Canadian Aviation Regulations.”

At least two people were hospitalized last Friday after the California-bound charter plane operated by Island Express Air slid off the runway at YXX while attempting to take off.

Island Express Air announced in February that it would be launching daily flights from Qualicum Beach starting Monday, March 5th.

Transport Canada issued the following news release Wednesday:

“Today, Transport Canada suspended Island Express Air’s Air Operator Certificate. The suspension prohibits the company from providing commercial air services. The department took this action in the interest of public safety due to the airline’s February 23, 2018 accident in Abbotsford, BC and its contraventions of the Canadian Aviation Regulations.

“In light of these threats to public safety, Transport Canada will not allow Island Express Air to resume its commercial air service until it proves it can keep its operations consistently compliant with aviation safety regulations… We will continue to monitor Island Express Air’s actions as the company works towards compliance with aviation safety regulations.”

Dale Nielsen of Island Express Air told The Abbotsford News Wednesday that the company was working with Transport Canada on addressing the issues, but didn’t have a date on when the airline – which regularly flies between Abbotsford, airports on Vancouver Island, and Boundary Bay – would resume service.

Transport Canada’s record of corporate offenders shows that the airline had, on six occasions, “permitted a take-off to be conducted in an aircraft that was in their legal custody and control, which was not maintained in accordance with a maintenance schedule that conforms to the Aircraft Equipment and Maintenance standards.” The incidents cited took place in January and February of 2017.

The company had previously been fined $5,000 for allowing an aircraft to take off in 2011 “when it did not meet the requirements of applicable Airworthiness Directives.” And another $5,000 fine was levied in 2016 for allowing a “person to act as a flight crew member in an aircraft when the person had not fulfilled the requirements of the air operator’s ground and flight training program.” That incident took place in May of 2015.

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

Island Express Air's president Gerry Visser shows off one of his airline's planes in 2012.


Transport Canada has grounded Island Express Air, the airline who had a small plane crash shortly after takeoff Friday in Abbotsford.

Island Express, based in Abbotsford, will be barred from operating as a commercial airline until “it proves it can keep its operations consistently compliant with aviation safety regulations,” Transport Canada said in a statement. “The department took this action in the interest of public safety.”

The agency also said the airline had contravened parts of the Canadian Air Regulations, but did not provide details.

“Transport Canada takes aviation safety seriously and expects all air operators to fully comply with aviation safety regulations. The department does not hesitate to take action when regulatory non-compliance is identified. We will continue to monitor Island Express Air’s actions as the company works towards compliance with aviation safety regulations. ”

In a recorded message on Island Express’s voicemail, the airline said they are “voluntarily suspending all flight operations.” 

“Our management team is currently working with Transport Canada and the Transportation Safety Board to find out the cause of the incident.”

The February 23rd crash involved a Beechcraft B100 King Air, C-GIAE, which was carrying two crew and eight passengers.

According to reports from the scene, the plane had climbed to about 300 feet when it apparently lost control and crashed into a raspberry field adjacent to Abbotsford Airport, near Walmsley Avenue and Clearbrook Road.

Two people were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

There was snow falling in the area at the time of the plane’s takeoff — about seven centimetres fell during the day, a further 15 cm the next day — but airport general manager Parm Sidhu said after the crash that it was too early to speculate if icy conditions were contributing factors in the accident.

According to Island Express’s website, the airline has 10 aircraft and serves Abbotsford, Vancouver, Victoria and Nanaimo with scheduled flights. They also have provided charter service to destinations around B.C., Canada, and the United States.

The airline was fined $5,000 in 2016 by Transport Canada for “for permitting a person to act as a flight crew member in an aircraft when the person had not fulfilled the requirements of the airline’s ground and flight training program.”

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

Robinson R44 II, C-FPBL: Fatal accident occurred July 20, 2020 in Thorburn Lake, Canada

NTSB Identification: GAA20WA118
14 CFR Non-U.S., Non-Commercial
Accident occurred Monday, July 20, 2020 in Thorburn Lake, Canada
Aircraft: ROBINSON R44, registration:
Injuries: 1 Fatal, 2 Serious.

The foreign authority was the source of this information.


The government of Canada has notified the NTSB of an accident involving a ROBINSON R44 helicopter that occurred on July 20, 2020. The NTSB has appointed a U.S. Accredited Representative to assist the government of Canada's investigation under the provisions of ICAO Annex 13.


All investigative information will be released by the government of Canada.



The investigation into what caused a helicopter crash near Clarenville that killed a man from Gambo and injured two others is underway.

The 69-year-old man from Gambo, a 68-year-old man from Aquaforte and a 54-year-old man from St. John's were aboard the helicopter when it went down near Thorburn Lake late Monday afternoon, said Clarenville RCMP in a press release late Tuesday morning.

RCMP responded to the crash around 3:45 p.m. on Monday, and returned to the crash site Tuesday morning. Police confirmed it was a Robinson R44 light utility helicopter that crashed.

The man from Gambo died at the scene, while the other two were sent to hospital in St. John's, in serious to critical condition as of Tuesday morning, police said.

"Both of them are in very serious condition. They're stable right now. We don't have any further update at this time," RCMP Staff Sgt. Larry Turner told CBC News on Tuesday.

"But, obviously, a crash of any aircraft is a serious one."

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada sent two investigators from Dartmouth to travel to the site of the crash in Thorburn Lake. In a statement to Radio-Canada, the TSB said their investigation began Monday, calling witnesses and gathering information on the weather conditions at the time of the crash.

Turner said the helicopter was travelling from Labrador, and made one prior stop before continuing to Thorburn Lake for a possible refuel.

"They were coming in for a landing when they experienced difficulties," Turner said.

Turner said the helicopter is still intact, but there is significant damage to the skis and tail section.

"The people inside would have been tossed around pretty good," he said.

Turner said it appears there was a strong wind in the cove but he couldn't make a guess on what actually caused the crash, saying he would leave it to the safety board to complete its investigation.

'Almost a perfect day'

"It was a gorgeous day. Just a moderate wind, I guess. Just what you call almost a perfect day," said Bob Efford, the owner of Clarenville Aviation, a float plane charter company that operates in the area but was not involved in the crash.

Efford didn't see the crash happen, but said the helicopter went down in an area of trees on the shoreline on the property of another float plane charter company.

Turner said Thorburn Aviation, another charter company in area, made the call to emergency responders.

Local response

There are several cabins in the area near where the crash took place, and locals were first to respond.

Boyce Mews was in his garden Monday afternoon when he noticed the CH-149 Cormorant helicopter from Gander's search and rescue base overhead, and though it's usual for the airspace to be lively with traffic, Mews said the SAR helicopter was an unusual sight.

"There's always something in the sky ... That's why in the beginning I thought no more about it. I don't even look out when an aircraft comes now, it's just nature out here," Mews said.

Mews said his neighbor stopped by to tell him something major was going on. The pair jumped in Mews' boat and headed across the lake to where another five boats were waiting.

They didn't go ashore. By the time Mews and his neighbor arrived a search and rescue crew, firefighters and the RCMP were inside the wooded area, about 15 feet from the water, Mews said.

The helicopter was visible from where the boats were waiting.

"We can see where there was some aircraft. We weren't sure what it was. We looked at it, and it was either yellow or red, or a combination," he said.

And while he isn't certain, Mews believes the helicopter might have experienced difficulty after refueling at a nearby charter company.

"From where they fuel up, to where they went down, there's no distance."

https://www.cbc.ca

Cessna 172G Skyhawk, N1118F, registered to and operated by Ecological Services International: Accident occurred February 28, 2018 in Gatesville, Coryell County, Texas

Additional Participating Entity: 
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Irving, 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/N1118F

Location: Gatesville, TX
Accident Number: GAA18CA146
Date & Time: 02/28/2018, 1300 CST
Registration: N1118F
Aircraft: CESSNA 172
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Runway excursion
Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

The pilot reported that he performed a soft field takeoff from the left side of the turf runway where it was firmer.

The airplane climbed to 20ft above ground level where it encountered wind gusts from the right. The airplane drifted to the left, collided with the wind sock pole, and then impacted the ground.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.

The nearest METAR reported that about the time of the accident, the wind was from 170° at 17kts and gusting to 22kts.

The pilot reported in the Recommendation section of the National Transportation Board Pilot Aircraft Accident Report, that the accident could have been prevented if he had initiated the takeoff from the center of the runway.

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

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 74, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s):None 
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 01/06/2017
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 12/23/2017
Flight Time: (Estimated) 3090 hours (Total, all aircraft), 800 hours (Total, this make and model), 3090 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 38 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 9 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 3 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Manufacturer: CESSNA
Registration: N1118F
Model/Series: 172 G
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1966
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 17254713
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 01/04/2018, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2300 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 4091 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: LYCOMING
ELT: Installed, activated, aided in locating accident
Engine Model/Series: O-360-A4M
Registered Owner: ECOLOGICAL SERVICES INTERNATIONAL
Rated Power: 180 hp
Operator: ECOLOGICAL SERVICES INTERNATIONAL
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None 

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KTPL, 682 ft msl
Observation Time: 1849 UTC
Distance from Accident Site: 5 Nautical Miles
Direction from Accident Site: 214°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Scattered / 2600 ft agl
Temperature/Dew Point: 25°C / 19°C
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 3300 ft agl
Visibility: 10 Miles
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 17 knots/ 22 knots, 170°
Visibility (RVR):
Altimeter Setting: 29.81 inches Hg
Visibility (RVV):
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Gatesville, TX (PVT)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Port Isabel, TX (PIL)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1300 CST
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: Private Airstrip (PVT)
Runway Surface Type: Grass/turf
Airport Elevation: 682 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry; Soft
Runway Used: 13
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 3500 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: None

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Minor
Latitude, Longitude:  31.215833, -97.365556 (est)




CORYELL COUNTY, Texas (KWTX) A pilot was injured Wednesday when a small plane crashed on a ranch in Coryell County.

The pilot, Paul Seales, 74, walked away from the crash.

He was taken to Coryell Memorial Hospital in Gatesville with non-life-threatening injuries, the Department of Public Safety said.

The Cessna 172G Skyhawk crashed at around 2:15 p.m. Wednesday after a wing struck a windsock pole as Seales was taking off from a grass strip about seven miles east of Gatesville, witnesses said.

An FAA representative was en route to the crash site off County Road 324, the DPS said.

Seales is a longtime friend of the owner's of the ranch's owners, Curves CEO Gary Heavin and his wife Diane.

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

The Texas Department of Public Safety said a small aircraft crash-landed at a private airfield off County Road 324 in Coryell County Wednesday afternoon.

The pilot, who was the only occupant, was driven by ambulance to a local hospital, DPS said. But, first responders said the pilot's injuries were not life-threatening.

The Texas Department of Public Safety said a Cessna 172G Skyhawk crash-landed at a private airfield off County Road 324 in Coryell County Wednesday afternoon.

The pilot, who was the only occupant, was driven by ambulance to a local hospital, DPS said. But, first responders said the pilot's injuries were not life-threatening.

DPS Sgt. Dave Roberts said his office would secure the scene.

Because the scene was on private land, the situation posed no hazards to nearby roads.

Coryell County Office of Emergency Management said it was aware of the crash. The Gatesville Police Department said the initial 911 call came in at 1:58 p.m.

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

The Texas Air Museum: A South Side jewel



The skies are filled with air traffic in the modern era. Whether commercial flight, police helicopters, military drills, or privately owned aircraft, the skies have been dominated by man. However, it was not long ago that the idea of flying machines was laughed upon and thought too ridiculous to accomplish.

In October 1999, John Tosh would open the Texas Air Museum; a privately owned, volunteer-run place; open to the public for a $4 admission fee. Located next to Stinson Airfield, at 1234 99th St, Tosh and his team of volunteers have been working to keep the public museum open and inform everyday citizens about the history of aircraft.

“San Antonio needed and aviation museum that was open to the public.” John Tosh, the Director of Texas Air Museum stated.

Outside, a large metal wearhouse structure stands with a solid steel door with a sign next to the handle: “Buzz the door, then enter.” Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted and asked to sign in. Pete Jones, a volunteer, offers a warm greeting and supplies them with a detailed layout of what there is to see and where to see it.

Massive life-size replicas, from the Wright Brothers first airplanes to retired fighter jets adorn the museum. There is an immense amount of knowledge in the museum, accompanied by a peer into the past. For Tosh, it isn’t just a museum filled with artifacts and replicas, it is about keeping local history alive.

“This [San Antonio] is the birthplace of modern aviation,” Tosh stated. “Lt Benjamin Floyd was the first army pilot. He had a lesson with the Wright Brothers here at Fort Sam Houston.”

Outside, enormous retired fighter jets rest in trimmed green grass, with ladders leading up to their cockpits where pilots once sat to take these planes of war to the sky. Now visitors take selfies and can even step through the body of a retired Vietnam era helicopter. Deeper into Tosh’s museum lie countless uniforms and helmets from around the world from servicemen and servicewomen alike. All are displayed and labeled with their country of origin and whether or not it was involved in conflict.

On display as well, was information on the world’s very first ‘dog fight.’ It would take place in the summer of 1913, during the Mexican Revolution, between two Mexican nationals. Dean I. Lamb flew a Curtiss biplane for the rebels, while Phil Rader flew a Christofferson for Mexico’s federal government. Neither plane had mounted guns, which led the pilots to use their pistols that would leave no one dead and neither plane damaged.

The Texas Air museum receives no funds from the city of San Antonio, but this has not kept the 85-year-old John Tosh from keeping its doors open for nearly 20 years. Tosh says that his love for aviation is what keeps him going and it does not look as though he has any intention of stopping. The Texas Air museum operates Tuesday-Saturday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., with an admission fee of four dollars. A small price to pay for more than century of aviation history. 

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

Pentagon Pushes for Deeper F-35 Jet Cost Cuts: Government will take over some repair work for program from Lockheed and partners



The Wall Street Journal
By Doug Cameron
Updated February 28, 2018 6:47 p.m. ET


The Pentagon is pushing to make the F-35 combat jet cheaper and will take over some repair work to prevent the world’s most expensive military program from becoming unaffordable.

Lockheed Martin Corp.’s multiyear effort to reduce the plane’s cost has worked, but the military head of the program warned spending on the F-35 could still surpass the Pentagon’s budget for the program by 2021.

“The price is coming down, but it’s not coming down fast enough,” Vice Adm. Mat Winter said on Wednesday.

Lockheed derives a quarter of its sales from the F-35 program. The Pentagon’s request could dent expectations for Lockheed to win a greater share of the business of maintaining the planes, which is typically more profitable than building aircraft.

Adm. Winter has launched a six-month review of labor expenses incurred by Lockheed and partners including Northrop Grumman Corp. and BAE Systems PLC to analyze the plane’s cost structure.

Lockheed Martin said in a statement that it was “aggressively” cutting costs and working with the government and suppliers to identify other opportunities.

The Pentagon said that taking on some of the F-35 repair work will free companies working on the program to make spare parts that have sometimes run short. Adm. Winter said just over half the fleet of 280 jets is available to fly because of spares shortages and quality issues.

The average cost of the F-35A model used by the U.S. Air Force dropped to $94.6 million in the last contract, a 7% decline from the previous deal.

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

Cessna 305A, N72BD: Accident occurred July 29, 2017 at Eagle Lake Airport (KELA), Colorado County, Texas

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Houston, Texas

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/N72BD

Location: Eagle Lake, TX
Accident Number: GAA17CA460
Date & Time: 07/29/2017, 1145 CDT
Registration: N72BD
Aircraft: CESSNA 305
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

Analysis

The pilot in command of the tailwheel-equipped airplane was in the rear seat during the personal flight. The owner of the airplane was in the front seat of the airplane.

The pilot in command made an approach to runway 17. He reported that just before the landing gear touched down, the airplane encountered a wind gust from the right. The nose of the airplane turned to the right and the airplane touched down on the runway. During the landing roll, the airplane exited the right side of the runway.

The owner of the airplane came on the controls and the airplane struck a runway light, then ground looped to the left.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the horizontal stabilizer and the upper left side of the fuselage just aft of the cabin.

The pilot reported that the wind was from 210° at 8 knots.

The nearest METAR, 25 miles northeast of the airport, reported that about the time of the accident the wind was from 260° at 6 knots and variable between 230° and 290°. The skies were clear with 9 statute miles of visibility.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Per the National Transportation Safety Board Pilot Aircraft Accident Report, the pilot noted that the accident could have been prevented if he had carried more airspeed during the landing to combat the wind conditions. 

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot's loss of directional control during landing in variable wind conditions.

Findings

Aircraft
Directional control - Not attained/maintained (Cause)

Personnel issues
Aircraft control - Pilot (Cause)

Environmental issues
Variable wind - Effect on operation (Cause)
Runway/taxi/approach light - Contributed to outcome

Factual Information

History of Flight

Approach
Other weather encounter

Landing-flare/touchdown
Loss of control on ground (Defining event)

Landing-landing roll
Runway excursion
Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Flight Instructor; Commercial
Age: 81, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Rear
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane; Helicopter
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane Multi-engine; Airplane Single-engine
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 01/18/2017
Occupational Pilot:
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 01/29/2017
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 6135 hours (Total, all aircraft), 140 hours (Total, this make and model), 5500 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 33 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 9 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 3 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial
Age: 67, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land; Single-engine Sea
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 2 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 04/03/2017
Occupational Pilot:
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 04/08/2017
Flight Time:   (Estimated) 4696 hours (Total, all aircraft), 171 hours (Total, this make and model), 4696 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 43 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 27 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 7 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Manufacturer: CESSNA
Registration: N72BD
Model/Series: 305 A
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1972
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 21655
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 12/11/2016, 100 Hour
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2300 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines:  1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 1491.8 Hours
Engine Manufacturer: AMA/EXPR
ELT: C126 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: UNKNOWN ENG
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 213
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: KTME, 168 ft msl
Observation Time: 1635 UTC
Distance from Accident Site: 25 Nautical Miles
Direction from Accident Site: 61°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Temperature/Dew Point: 33°C / 23°C
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility:  9 Miles
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 6 knots, 260°
Visibility (RVR):
Altimeter Setting: 29.95 inches Hg
Visibility (RVV):
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: COLUMBUS, TX (TS27)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Eagle Lake, TX (ELA)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time:  CDT
Type of Airspace: Class E 

Airport Information

Airport: EAGLE LAKE (ELA)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 183 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 17
IFR Approach: VOR
Runway Length/Width: 3801 ft / 60 ft
VFR Approach/Landing:  Full Stop; Traffic Pattern 

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:  29.600556, -96.321944 (est)

Bell 47G-3B, N47AH, registered to and operated by Scott's Helicopter Services Inc: Accident occurred July 24, 2017 in Toeterville, Mitchell County, Iowa

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Des Moines, Iowa

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/N47AH

Location: Toeterville, IA

Accident Number: GAA17CA436
Date & Time: 07/24/2017, 1600 CDT
Registration: N47AH
Aircraft: BELL 47G 3B
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 137: Agricultural 

Analysis 

According to the helicopter pilot, during an agricultural flight, he made a downwind turn to spray the intended field. During the low airspeed right turn, he increased the engine power, and the rotor rpm decreased. He reported that he leveled the helicopter to clear power lines, but the rotor rpm remained low. The helicopter descended, and the pilot landed the helicopter in a corn field.

The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom and horizontal stabilizer.

The nearest METAR located 15 nautical miles south-southeast from the accident site reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was calm.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot's failure to maintain rotor rpm while maneuvering at low altitude with low airspeed and a tailwind. 

Findings

Aircraft
Prop/rotor parameters - Not attained/maintained (Cause)
Airspeed - Not attained/maintained (Cause)
Altitude - Attain/maintain not possible (Cause)

Personnel issues
Aircraft control - Pilot (Cause)

Environmental issues
Tailwind - Effect on operation (Cause)


Factual Information

According to the helicopter pilot, during an agricultural flight, he made a downwind turn to spray the intended field.

During the low airspeed right turn, he increased the engine power and the rotor RPM decreased.

He reported that he leveled the helicopter to clear powerline wires, but the rotor RPM remained low.

The helicopter descended, and the pilot landed the helicopter in a corn field.

The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom and the horizontal stabilizer.

The nearest METAR was 15 nautical miles south-southeast and reported that about the time of the accident, the wind was calm.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation. 

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 33, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 2 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 05/05/2017
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 04/13/2017
Flight Time: (Estimated) 389 hours (Total, all aircraft), 1 hours (Total, this make and model), 150 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 100 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 10 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Manufacturer: BELL
Registration: N47AH
Model/Series: 47G 3B 3B
Aircraft Category: Helicopter
Year of Manufacture: 1961
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Restricted; Normal
Serial Number: 2645
Landing Gear Type: Skid;
Seats: 1
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 05/01/2017, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2850 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 14259 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: LYCOMING
ELT: Not installed
Engine Model/Series: TV0-435 SER
Registered Owner: SCOTTS HELICOPTER SERVICE INC
Rated Power: 250 hp
Operator: SCOTTS HELICOPTER SERVICE INC
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Agricultural Aircraft (137) 

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KAUM, 1233 ft msl
Observation Time: 0814 UTC
Distance from Accident Site: 15 Nautical Miles
Direction from Accident Site: 334°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Temperature/Dew Point: 14°C / 13°C
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility: 7 Miles
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: Calm
Visibility (RVR):
Altimeter Setting: 30.03 inches Hg
Visibility (RVV):
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Toeterville, IA
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Toeterville, IA
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 0150 CDT
Type of Airspace: Class G

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:  43.438889, -92.782222 (est)

Mooney M20C, N9303V, registered to Badger Flyers Inc: Accident occurred July 15, 2017 at Washington Island Airport (2P2), Wisconsin

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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/N9303V


Location:  Washington Island, WI
Accident Number: GAA17CA412
Date & Time: 07/15/2017, 1130 CDT
Registration: N9303V
Aircraft: MOONEY M20C
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Miscellaneous/other
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

Analysis

During the final approach for landing, the airplane was too low and struck trees short of the runway threshold, spun about 180° then impacted the ground.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The pilot failed to submit the NTSB Form 6120.1 Pilot/ Operator Aircraft Accident/ Incident Report. 

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot's failure to maintain a proper approach path, which resulted in impact with trees.

Findings

Aircraft
Descent/approach/glide path - Not attained/maintained (Cause)

Personnel issues
Aircraft control - Pilot (Cause)

Environmental issues
Tree(s) - Effect on operation

Factual Information

History of Flight

Approach-VFR pattern final
Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

 Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 76, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Unknown
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: Unknown
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 04/24/2017
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:


Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Manufacturer: MOONEY
Registration: N9303V
Model/Series: M20C
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1969
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 690087
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection:  Unknown
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2575 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time:
Engine Manufacturer: LYCOMING
ELT:
Engine Model/Series: O-360
Registered Owner: BADGER FLYERS INC.
Rated Power:  hp
Operator: BADGER FLYERS INC.
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None 

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KESC, 594 ft msl
Observation Time: 1456 UTC
Distance from Accident Site: 22 Nautical Miles
Direction from Accident Site: 342°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Temperature/Dew Point: 23°C / 15°C
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility:  10 Miles
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 14 knots/ 18 knots, 250°
Visibility (RVR):
Altimeter Setting: 30.03 inches Hg
Visibility (RVV):
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point:
Type of Flight Plan Filed: Unknown
Destination: Washington Island, WI (2P2)
Type of Clearance:  Unknown
Departure Time:
Type of Airspace: Class G 

Airport Information

Airport: WASHINGTON ISLAND (2P2)
Runway Surface Type: Unknown
Airport Elevation: 652 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Unknown
Runway Used: 20
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 2250 ft / 150 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full Stop

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:  45.387778, -86.922778 (est)

Pazmany PL-2, N186EJ, registered Progenitech LLC: Fatal accident occurred July 14, 2017 at San Gabriel Valley Airport (KEMT), El Monte, Los Angeles County, California

Jeffrey Ying


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

Additional Participating Entities:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Los Angeles, California
Lycoming Engines; Williamsport, Pennsylvania

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/N186EJ 

Analysis 

About 15 minutes after arriving at the airport, the private pilot departed on a local flight. A witness reported that, shortly after takeoff, the engine "sputtered and quit." The airplane appeared to continue climbing straight ahead to an altitude about 200 ft above ground level, then initiated a left turn as if attempting to return to the runway. The airplane reached an approximate 90° angle of bank and the nose dropped before the airplane descended almost vertically to ground contact, consistent with an aerodynamic stall/spin.

Examination of the airframe and engine revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The propeller did not exhibit indications of rotation at the time of impact. The fuel selector was set to the left tank position. Both left and right fuel tanks were breached and devoid of fuel; however, the asphalt surrounding the wreckage was discolored consistent with fuel spillage. The gascolator bowl contained some fuel; however, the carburetor bowl and accelerator pump well were devoid of fuel. Examination of the fuel system revealed no evidence of blockage that would have prevented fuel flow to the engine. The quantity and distribution of fuel on board the airplane at the time of the accident could not be determined; however, the lack of fuel in the carburetor bowl and accelerator pump is consistent with a fuel starvation event. The reason for the fuel starvation could not be determined based on the available information. Following the loss of engine power, the pilot attempted to return to the runway; however, the airplane did not have sufficient altitude to complete the 180° turn. During the turn, the pilot failed to maintain sufficient airspeed, which resulted in the airplane exceeding its critical angle of attack and entering an aerodynamic stall and spin. 

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
A total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence. Also causal was the pilot's decision to return to the runway following the loss of engine power, and his failure to maintain airspeed during the turn, which resulted in the airplane exceeding its critical angle of attack and experiencing an aerodynamic stall/spin. 

Findings

Aircraft
Fuel - Not specified (Cause)
Airspeed - Not attained/maintained (Cause)
Angle of attack - Capability exceeded (Cause)

Personnel issues
Aircraft control - Pilot (Cause)
Decision making/judgment - Pilot (Cause)

Factual Information

History of Flight

Initial climb
Fuel starvation (Defining event)
Loss of engine power (total)
Loss of control in flight


Location: El Monte, CA
Accident Number: WPR17FA152
Date & Time: 07/14/2017, 0932 PDT
Registration: N186EJ
Aircraft: JANSEN PAZMANY PL 2
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Fuel starvation
Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under:  Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On July 14, 2017, at 0932 Pacific daylight time, an experimental amateur-built Jansen Pazmany PL-2, N186EJ, impacted the ground following a loss of engine power after takeoff from San Gabriel Valley Airport (EMT), El Monte, California. The private pilot was fatally injured, and the airplane sustained substantial damage. The airplane was registered to Progenitech, LLC, and operated under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the local personal flight, which was originating at the time of the accident.

According to airport gate entrance records, the pilot arrived at the airport at 0914. Information from the airport control tower indicated that the pilot contacted ground control for a taxi clearance at 0928, and contacted departure control at 0930.

A witness reported that he watched the airplane take off; when it was between 50 and 75 ft above the runway, the engine "sputtered and quit." The airplane continued to climb straight ahead for a brief time, then appeared to initiate a left turn back toward the runway at an altitude about 200 ft above ground level. The witness reported that the airplane reached an approximate 90° angle of bank and its nose dropped as it descended almost vertically to ground contact. 



Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 63, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: Yes
Medical Certification: Class 2 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 12/07/2016
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:  4200 hours (Total, all aircraft)

In addition to the pilot's various ratings, in 2010, he accomplished an around-the-world flight in a single engine airplane. The pilot's logbook was not recovered for examination; during the pilot's most recent medical examination he reported 4,200 total hours, and 200 hours in the previous six months. 



Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Manufacturer: JANSEN
Registration: N186EJ
Model/Series: PAZMANY PL 2
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1979
Amateur Built: Yes
Airworthiness Certificate: Experimental
Serial Number: 186
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats:  2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 08/08/2016, Condition
Certified Max Gross Wt.:
Time Since Last Inspection:  451 Hours
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time:
Engine Manufacturer:  LYCOMING
ELT: C91  installed, activated, did not aid in locating accident
Engine Model/Series: O-320 SERIES
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 160 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: KEMT, 296 ft msl
Observation Time: 1645 UTC
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Direction from Accident Site: 155°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Temperature/Dew Point: 25°C / 16°C
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility:  10 Miles
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 5 knots, 230°
Visibility (RVR):
Altimeter Setting: 30.03 inches Hg
Visibility (RVV):
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: El Monte, CA (EMT)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: El Monte, CA (EMT)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 0931 PDT
Type of Airspace: Class D 



Airport Information

Airport: SAN GABRIEL VALLEY (EMT)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 295 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 19
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 3995 ft / 75 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Forced Landing 



Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude:  34.086111, -118.034722 (est) 

The first identified point of contact was a ground scar with debris from the left wing tip and fuel tank. The second ground scar was from the propeller spinner, and exhibited an indentation consistent with a propeller strike. There were no indications of torsional bending of the propeller. The debris path extended along a magnetic heading of 106°. The main wreckage came to rest about 66 ft east of the first point of impact, with all debris contained within about 500 square ft. The fuel selector was set to the left fuel tank position. Fuel was drained from the gascolator; its color and odor was consistent with 100LL aviation fuel. The sample contained no debris or water.

Examination of the airframe and engine revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

The engine remained attached to the damaged engine mounts and there was no evidence of catastrophic malfunction. The top spark plugs were removed and exhibited normal operating signatures when compared to the Champion 'check-a-plug' chart. The rocker covers were removed and the engine crankshaft was rotated by hand; thumb compression was established in proper firing order. In addition, the rockers appeared to move normally. The carburetor was displaced from the engine. The throttle control was attached, and the mixture cable arm was separated consistent with impact. The carburetor bowl was removed and no fuel was present. The float pontoons were intact and did not show evidence of hydrodynamic crushing. In addition, the accelerator pump well was devoid of fuel. The gascolator bowl was removed and about 1 ounce of fuel remained. The fuel selector was removed and air was blown through it; the left fuel tank was selected. Air was blown through the fuel system from the wings to the engine; all fuel lines and fuel tank vents were clear of debris and internal blockages. Air was blown through the fuel line between the fuel pump outlet and the carburetor inlet with no anomalies noted.

Although the right and left wing fuel tanks were heavily damaged and contained no fuel, the asphalt surrounding the wreckage was discolored in a manner consistent with fuel spillage. 



Medical And Pathological Information

The Department of the Medical Examiner-Coroner from the County of Los Angeles, California, performed an autopsy on the pilot. The cause of death was listed as blunt trauma.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Bioaeronautical Sciences Research Laboratory, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, performed forensic toxicology testing on specimens from the pilot with negative results for carbon monoxide, cyanide, and ethanol. Specimens tested positive for valsartan, a blood pressure medication. According to the FAA, this medication is generally acceptable for use by airmen provided the underlying condition is well-controlled and there are no adverse side effects. 

Additional Information

A pamphlet published by the FAA Safety Team titled, "Aircraft Control After Engine Failure on Takeoff" stated, "Studies have shown that startle responses during unexpected situations such as a powerplant failure during takeoff or initial climb have contributed to loss of control of aircraft…Research indicates a higher probability of survival if you continue straight ahead following an engine failure after takeoff. Turning back actually requires a turn of greater than 180 degrees after taking into account the turning radius. Making a turn at low altitudes and airspeeds could create a scenario for a stall/spin accident."



NTSB Identification: WPR17FA152
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Friday, July 14, 2017 in El Monte, CA
Aircraft: JANSEN PAZMANY PL 2, registration: N186EJ
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

This is preliminary information, subject to change, and may contain errors. Any errors in this report will be corrected when the final report has been completed. NTSB investigators 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 July 14, 2017, at 0930 Pacific daylight time, an experimental amateur-built Jansen, Pazmany PL-2, N186EJ, impacted the ground after experiencing a total loss of engine power during the initial climb from the San Gabriel Valley Airport (EMT), El Monte, California. The airplane was registered to Progenitech LLC and operated by the pilot as a 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The private pilot was fatally injured, and the airplane sustained substantial damage. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed. 

A witness reported that he observed the airplane taxi and takeoff a few minutes after the pilot had arrived at the airport. Other witnesses reported they watched the airplane takeoff; when it was about 50-75 feet above the runway, the engine sputtered and lost complete power. The airplane continued straight for a brief time, and to some, it appeared as if the airplane was climbing. The airplane made a steep left turn; during which, the airplane's nose dropped to near vertical and it descended to the ground. 

The airplane has been recovered to a secure location for further examination.