Tuesday, July 31, 2018

Canadair, Bombardier Challenger 600 (CL-60), N620PJ: Incident occurred July 16, 2018

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Orlando, Florida

Diverted from Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (KFLL) to Jacksonville International Airport (KJAX) due to cracked windshield, landed without incident. 


N620PJ LLC: http://registry.faa.gov/N620PJ 

Date: 16-JUL-18

Time: 23:14:00Z
Regis#: N620PJ
Aircraft Make: BOMBARDIER
Aircraft Model: CL 60
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: UNKNOWN
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: COMMERCIAL
Flight Phase: UNKNOWN (UNK)
Operation: 121
Aircraft Operator: CANADAIR
Flight Number: UNK
City: JACKSONVILLE
State: FLORIDA

Beech B95 Travel Air, N951TC: Incident occurred July 30, 2018 at Melbourne International Airport (KMLB), Brevard County, Florida

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Orlando, Florida

Gear collapsed.


http://registry.faa.gov/N951TC


Date: 30-JUL-18
Time: 12:58:00Z
Regis#: N951TC
Aircraft Make: BEECH
Aircraft Model: B95
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: UNKNOWN
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: MELBOURNE
State: FLORIDA

Sonex, N852JN: Incident occurred July 30, 2018 at Capital City Airport (KFFT), Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky


Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Louisville, Kentucky

Bounced on landing and veered into the grass.


http://registry.faa.gov/N852JN 


Date: 30-JUL-18
Time: 18:45:00Z
Regis#: N852JN
Aircraft Make: SONEX
Aircraft Model: SONEX
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: FRANKFORT
State: KENTUCKY





A minor crash involving a single-engine aircraft occurred Monday afternoon at Capital City Airport, though airport officials said no one was seriously hurt.

The small aircraft crash-landed onto a hill several feet from the airport’s runway at approximately 2:45 p.m., airport Assistant Director Scott Shannon said.

“The pilot made an attempt to land, and some people indicated … that the aircraft bounced when it landed, and it started to porpoise when it landed,” Shannon said. An aircraft porpoises when it first makes contact with the ground but continues to repeatedly bounce up and down.

Following the crash, the pilot told officials that he had experienced a problem with the landing gear, Shannon said. The cause of the crash has yet to officially be determined, though Shannon said no engine failure occurred. No one else occupied the plane.

The pilot, Shannon said, declined to go to the hospital.

Shannon said he did not know any information about the pilot. The Federal Aviation Administration’s registry shows that the plane is registered to Jay G. Close in Versailles under a valid certification, based on the N-number shown near the plane’s tail.

The plane’s propeller showed visible damage, and one of the wheels from the landing gear rested beside the aircraft in the field.

With crews unable to move the plane until the FAA comes to examine the crash scene, the plane remained on the hill Monday night. Though Shannon said he did not know exactly when the FAA would come, he added that the agency usually works quickly and he expected that someone would examine the wreckage Tuesday.

Once that happens, Shannon said, the pilot will be able to handle the matter with his insurance company.

Though Shannon acknowledged that aviation accidents are bound to happen on occasion, he said they are uncommon and that it has been “quite some time” since Frankfort’s airport has experienced such an incident.

Original article can be found here ➤ https://www.state-journal.com

Cape Air, Cessna 402C, N67886: Incident occurred July 30, 2018 at Logan International Airport (KBOS), Boston, Massachusetts

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Boston, Massachusetts

Flight Number 444: Departed and advised problem with cabin door, returned and landed without incident, door was resting on the roof.


Hyannis Air Service Inc doing business as Cape Air


http://registry.faa.gov/N67886

Date: 30-JUL-18
Time: 15:34:00Z
Regis#: N67886
Aircraft Make: CESSNA
Aircraft Model: 402C
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: UNKNOWN
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: COMMERCIAL
Flight Phase: TAKEOFF (TOF)
Operation: 121
Aircraft Operator: CAPE AIR
Flight Number: 444
City: BOSTON
State: MASSACHUSETTS

Air Tractor AT-502B, N205SK: Accidents occurred July 10, 2022, July 30, 2018 and July 18, 2012

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.

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

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Springfield, Illinois

Digger Dougs Crop Dusting Services Inc


Location: Wyoming, Illinois
Accident Number: CEN22LA310
Date and Time: July 10, 2022, 18:10 Local 
Registration: N205SK
Aircraft: AIR TRACTOR INC AT-502B - 0628 
Injuries: N/A
Flight Conducted Under: Part 137: Agricultural

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: AIR TRACTOR INC 
Registration: N205SK
Model/Series: AT-502B - 0628 NO SERIES
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built:
Operator:
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Agricultural aircraft (137)
Operator Designator Code:

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: VMC
Condition of Light: Dusk
Observation Facility, Elevation: 
Observation Time:
Distance from Accident Site: 
Temperature/Dew Point:
Lowest Cloud Condition: 
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: / ,
Lowest Ceiling: 
Visibility:
Altimeter Setting: 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: VFR
Departure Point: Wyoming , IL (N/A)
Destination: Wyoming, IL

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: N/A 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A 
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: N/A
Latitude, Longitude: 41.04666,-89.77373 (est)








Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

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

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Jackson, Mississippi

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

Joe Pruden Flying Service/Larry Joe Pruden

Delta Pilot LLC 


Location: Louise, Mississippi 
Accident Number: GAA18CA476
Date and Time: July 30, 2018, 12:00 Local
Registration: N205SK
Aircraft: Air Tractor AT502
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 137: Agricultural

Analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the fourth landing on a rural runway, the airplane touched down hard, bounced, and veered left. The pilot attempted to correct with opposite rudder; however, the airplane continued left into a field and ground looped to the left. The right wing impacted the ground, and the right main landing gear separated.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane 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 improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard, bounced landing and a subsequent loss of directional control. 

Findings

Aircraft Landing flare - Not attained/maintained
Aircraft Directional control - Not attained/maintained
Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing Hard landing
Landing Abnormal runway contact
Landing-landing roll Loss of control on ground (Defining event)
Landing Attempted remediation/recovery
Landing-landing roll Runway excursion
Landing-landing roll Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial 
Age: 36, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land 
Seat Occupied: Single
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 2 With waivers/limitations 
Last FAA Medical Exam: March 1, 2018
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: (Estimated) 1425 hours (Total, all aircraft), 74 hours (Total, this make and model)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Air Tractor 
Registration: N205SK
Model/Series: AT502 B 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2001 
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Restricted (Special) 
Serial Number: 502B-0628
Landing Gear Type: 
Tricycle Seats: 1
Date/Type of Last Inspection: January 5, 2018 Annual 
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 8000 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Turbo prop
Airframe Total Time: 7827 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Pratt & Whitney
ELT: Not installed
Engine Model/Series: PT6A-34AG
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 750 Horsepower
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Agricultural aircraft (137)
Operator Does Business As: Delta Pilot LLC 
Operator Designator Code:

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC) 
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KGLH,128 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 33 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 17:53 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 327°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Scattered / 7000 ft AGL
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction:
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 29.97 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 29°C / 22°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Louise, MS (PVT) 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Louise, MS (PVT)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 09:20 Local 
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: PVT PVT
Runway Surface Type: Grass/turf
Airport Elevation: 101 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 36 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 2500 ft / 250 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full stop; Straight-in

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None
Latitude, Longitude: 33.033054,-90.622779 (est)

Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

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

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Baton Rouge, Louisiana 

Delta Dusters LLC


Location: Wisner, Louisiana
Accident Number: CEN12LA459
Date and Time: July 18, 2012, 11:00 Local
Registration: N205SK
Aircraft: AIR TRACTOR INC AT-502B
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Collision during takeoff/land 
Injuries: 1 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 137: Agricultural

Analysis

The pilot reported that the airplane lifted off of the 2,500-foot long, rough, turf airstrip about 100 feet before the end of the runway. However, the airplane did not climb out of ground effect, and it settled into a bean field. He stated that there were no mechanical issues with the airplane during the accident takeoff. The pilot had reduced the chemical load for the agricultural application flight due to the runway length and ambient temperature, and he had elected to conduct the accident takeoff with the wing flaps extended to about 25 degrees. He reported a gross weight for the accident takeoff of 10,100 lbs. Performance data indicated that a takeoff distance of about 2,600 feet was required to clear a 50-foot obstacle. However, that data was applicable to a hard surface runway at a maximum certificated gross takeoff weight of 8,000 lbs with 10 degrees of flaps. The airplane flight manual did not contain takeoff data for weights or flap settings in excess of 8,000 lbs and 10 degrees, respectively. The airplane manufacturer recommended that takeoffs not be attempted with more than 10 degrees of flap. Regulations and guidance related to agricultural application flights in restricted category airplanes allowed for operations up to 31 percent above the certificated gross takeoff weight. The pilot reported that the maximum gross weight for the airplane was 10,480 lbs, which corresponded to the 31 percent limit. FAA guidance suggested that an increase in takeoff gross weight of 31 percent will increase the required takeoff distance by about 90 percent. The reduced acceleration due to the rough, turf runway and the excess flap deflection selected by the pilot, combined with operating near the maximum permitted takeoff gross weight, resulted in the airplane's inability to attain a positive rate of climb after liftoff.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot’s inadequate takeoff planning that did not consider the reduced acceleration due to a rough, turf runway and his use of an improper flap setting, which resulted in a collision with terrain during takeoff.

Findings

Environmental issues Runway/landing area condition - Effect on operation
Aircraft Climb rate - Not attained/maintained
Personnel issues Use of equip/system - Pilot
Aircraft Trailing edge flaps - Incorrect use/operation
Personnel issues Performance calculations - Pilot

Factual Information

On July 18, 2012, about 1100 central daylight time, an Air Tractor AT-502B, N205SK, impacted a bean field after takeoff from a private airstrip near Wisner, Louisiana. The pilot sustained a serious injury. The airplane was substantially damaged. The airplane was registered to and operated by Delta Dusters LLC under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 as an agricultural application flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight, which was not operated on a flight plan. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

The pilot reported that the airplane lifted off of the 2,500-foot long turf airstrip about 100 feet before the end of the runway. However, the airplane did not climb out of ground effect and it settled into a bean field located off the end of the runway, substantially damaging both wings. He noted that the engine seemed to be "making good power" and there did not seem to be any mechanical issues during the accident takeoff. The pilot commented that the runway was rough and "needed the grass cut." He reduced the chemical load to 375 gallons due to the runway length and ambient temperature. In addition, the pilot stated that he extended the wing flaps to about three-quarters of full deflection for takeoff. The wind was from the south at about 3 knots. The accident takeoff was to the east.

A postaccident examination conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector did not reveal any anomalies consistent with a preimpact failure or malfunction. At the time of the examination, the wing flap actuator extension corresponded to a full down (25 degrees) deflection. The airplane flight manual stated that takeoffs with a full chemical hopper load from a short field should be made with a 10-degree flap deflection. The manual also noted that the takeoff roll and acceleration will be adversely affected by grassy or soft runway surfaces. The flight manual did not authorize takeoffs with flaps extended in excess of 10 degrees.

The pilot reported an operating weight at the time of the accident of 10,100 lbs., with a maximum gross weight of 10,480 lbs. The airplane manufacturer's documentation specified a maximum certificated takeoff weight of 8,000 lbs. Regulations and FAA guidance allow agricultural operators of restricted category airplanes to operate at weights in excess of the maximum certificated weights. In accordance with Civil Aeronautics Manual (CAM) 8 and Advisory Circular 20-33B, the airplane manufacturer demonstrated operations at 9,400 lbs.  However, the guidance allowed operations of the AT-502B at weights up to 31-percent above the certificated takeoff weight (10,480 lbs.) provided that the operator performed a flight check confirming safe flight characteristics at that weight.

The airplane flight manual noted a takeoff distance required to clear a 50-foot obstacle of about 2,600 feet. This distance was applicable to departure from a hard surface runway, at a gross weight of 8,000 lbs. with 10 degrees flaps, at a pressure altitude of 0 feet (sea level), and an ambient temperature of 30 degrees Celsius. The flight manual did not contain takeoff data for weights or flap settings in excess of 8,000 lbs. and 10 degrees, respectively. The airplane manufacturer did not recommend that takeoffs be attempted with more than 10 degrees of flap.

Federal Aviation Administration guidance contained in the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25A) stated that a 10-percent increase in gross weight will result in at least a 21-percent increase in the takeoff distance required. In addition, the handbook noted that operations on any surface that is not hard and smooth will increase the ground roll during takeoff. The handbook also noted that it is possible to fly an airplane just clear of the ground at a slightly slower airspeed than that required to sustain level flight at higher altitudes due to a phenomenon known as ground effect. An airplane leaving ground effect after takeoff will experience an increase in drag and thrust required to maintain flight.

History of Flight

Initial climb Collision during takeoff/land (Defining event)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial
Age: 67, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter 
Restraint Used:
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: January 11, 2012
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: December 17, 2011
Flight Time: 23000 hours (Total, all aircraft), 3000 hours (Total, this make and model), 300 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 150 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 0 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: AIR TRACTOR INC 
Registration: N205SK
Model/Series: AT-502B 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Restricted (Special) 
Serial Number: 502B-0628
Landing Gear Type: Seats: 1
Date/Type of Last Inspection: July 2, 2012 100 hour 
Certified Max Gross Wt.:
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Turbo prop
Airframe Total Time: 6658 Hrs as of last inspection 
Engine Manufacturer: P&W
ELT: Not installed
Engine Model/Series: PT6A SERIES
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 500 Horsepower
Operator: 
Operating Certificate(s) Held:

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC) 
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: HEZ,272 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 22 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 10:55 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 145°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 2400 ft AGL 
Visibility 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction:
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 30.06 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 30°C / 22°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Wisner, LA (PVT)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Wisner, LA (PVT) 
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 11:00 Local
Type of Airspace:

Airport Information

Airport: Private PVT 
Runway Surface Type: Grass/turf
Airport Elevation: 60 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Rough
Runway Used: 09 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 2300 ft / 75 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: None

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Serious 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Serious 
Latitude, Longitude: 31.946111,-91.562774 (est)

Piper PA-46-500TP Malibu, N560WA: Incident occurred July 30, 2018 at Aurora State Airport (KUAO), Marion County, Oregon

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Portland, Oregon

Blew a tire on landing.


AESOP LLC: http://registry.faa.gov/N560WA


Date: 30-JUL-18
Time: 22:04:00Z
Regis#: N560WA
Aircraft Make: PIPER
Aircraft Model: PA 46 500TP
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: AURORA
State: OREGON

Luscombe 8E Silvaire, N2022K: Accident occurred July 30, 2018 at Schuylkill County/Joe Zerbey Airport (KZER), Pottsville, Pennsylvania

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

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/N2022K 


Location: Pottsville, PA
Accident Number: GAA18CA456
Date & Time: 07/30/2018, 1100 EDT
Registration: N2022K
Aircraft: Luscombe 8
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during landing, the airplane veered to the right, he applied left rudder to correct, but the airplane exited the runway to the right and impacted a ditch.

The pilot added that he thought that he became too relaxed and "not on his game" during the landing.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.

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

The pilot did not submit the NTSB Form 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report. 

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 68, 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: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 01/09/2017
Occupational Pilot:
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:  (Estimated)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Luscombe
Registration: N2022K
Model/Series: 8 E
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1947
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 4749
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection:  Unknown
Certified Max Gross Wt.:
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time:
Engine Manufacturer: Continental
ELT:
Engine Model/Series: C85
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power:
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: KMUI, 488 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 19 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1456 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 208°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 9000 ft agl
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 19000 ft agl
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 4 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 80°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.14 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 23°C / 17°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point:
Type of Flight Plan Filed: Unknown
Destination: Pottsville, PA (ZER)
Type of Clearance: Unknown
Departure Time:
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: SCHUYLKILL COUNTY/JOE ZERBEY (ZER)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 1729 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 11
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 4599 ft / 75 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full Stop

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:  40.705556, -76.374444 (est)

Van's Aircraft RV-6, N24CM: Accident occurred July 28, 2018 at Pickens County Airport (KLQK), Liberty, South Carolina

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; West Columbia, South Carolina

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/N24CM


Location: Pickens, SC
Accident Number: GAA18CA451
Date & Time: 07/28/2018, 1100 EDT
Registration: N24CM
Aircraft: Vans RV 6
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Abnormal runway contact
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

According to the pilot in the tailwheel-equipped, experimental, amateur-built airplane, he had practiced two takeoffs and landings and decided to refuel the airplane.

After refueling the airplane, he flew one more pattern prior to flying to his home airport. During the flare, the airplane "seemed as if it was being pushed down."

The left wing struck the runway and the airplane landed on the right main landing gear, and then it bounced. The propeller struck the ground and the airplane exited the right side of the runway and stopped.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing spar.

The METAR at the airport about the time of the accident reported that the wind was calm.

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

Pilot Information

Certificate: Flight Instructor; Commercial
Age:71, Male 
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane Single-engine
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 2 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 12/12/2016
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 12/20/2016
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 752 hours (Total, all aircraft), 48 hours (Total, this make and model), 750 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 6.4 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 2.3 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Vans
Registration: N24CM
Model/Series: RV 6 Undesignated
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1994
Amateur Built: Yes
Airworthiness Certificate: Experimental
Serial Number: 20835
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 03/21/2018, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1750 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 1658.7 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: Installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: O-320-D1A
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: KLQK, 1014 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1515 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 18°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility: 10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: Calm /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: /
Wind Direction:
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: /
Altimeter Setting: 30.09 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 29°C / 21°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Asheville, NC (AVL)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Asheville, NC (AVL)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1000 EDT
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: Pickens County (LQK)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 1013 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 05
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5002 ft / 100 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:  34.810000, -82.702778 (est)

Loss of Engine Power (Total): Robinson R44 II, N744AK; accident occurred July 29, 2018 at Bettles Airport (PABT), Alaska

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

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/N744AK


Location: Bettles, AK
Accident Number: ANC18LA058
Date & Time: 07/29/2018, 0912 AKD
Registration: N744AK
Aircraft: Robinson R44
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of engine power (total)
Injuries: 3 None
Flight Conducted Under: Public Aircraft 

On July 29, 2018, at about 0912 Alaska daylight time, N744AK, a Robinson R44 II helicopter, sustained substantial damage during a forced landing following a total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff from the Bettles Airport (PABT), Bettles, Alaska. The commercial pilot and two passengers were not injured. The helicopter was registered to and operated by Quicksilver Air Inc., under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a public-use flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and company flight following procedures were in effect. The flight departed PABT about 0908.

According to the pilot, he had computed the weight and balance and performed a preflight inspection prior to departure. After the passengers boarded the helicopter, the engine was started, and all ground run-up checks of the engine were satisfactory. He stated that about 4 minutes after liftoff the helicopter lost all engine power. He entered an emergency autorotation and landed the helicopter in a bog. During the emergency landing, the tips of the helicopter's skids broke though the vegetative matt on the bog's surface and the main rotor blades impacted the tailboom. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and tailboom.

Examination of the recovered Lycoming IO-540-AE1A5 engine revealed that it remained attached to the airframe via all its mounts. All fuel lines, throttle, and mixture control cables were intact and remained attached to the engine. The bottom spark plugs were removed and remained free of mechanical damage. The bottom spark plugs exhibited coloration consistent with normal operation. The cooling fan nut was rotated in the direction of normal rotation. No movement of the intake and exhaust rocker arms was observed. The oil suction screen was removed and found to contain metallic fragments. The engine was removed from the airframe for further examination.

The left and right magneto, vacuum pump, oil filter and rear accessory housing was removed from the engine. The crankshaft idler gear and gear shaft was observed loose from their mount. Both the bolt and stud were separated from the crankcase and their respective bores were elongated. Heavy fretting, gouging, and smearing was observed around the mounting surface for the crankshaft idler gear shaft. Fragmented remains of the safety wire, stud, nut and bolt were located in the oil sump. Examination of images of the components by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Materials Laboratory revealed impact wear and deformation around both crankcase mounting holes and the shaft flange mounting face, was consistent with the partial or complete loss of bolt and stud clamping force of the shaft flange to the crankcase. The NTSB's Materials Laboratory Factual Report is available in the public docket for this accident.

Review of the helicopter's maintenance records revealed that the overhauled engine was installed on the accident helicopter on July 10, 2015 at a total time in service of 6,600.0 hours. The last logged maintenance activity in which the fasteners could have been manipulated was performed at the engine overhaul, about 3 years prior to the accident. The engine had accumulated about 727 operating hours since that time. The most recent 100-hour inspection was conducted 18.1 hrs before the accident on July 21, 2018, at an engine total time in service of 7,309.3 hrs, and 709.3 hrs since major overhaul. No logbook entries were observed concerning the idler gear shaft mounting stud and fasteners.

The oil filter element which had been cut and examined at the most recent 100-hr inspection was located and reexamined and found to contain greater than 60 small pieces of shiny flake like metallic material with some of those flakes estimated to be greater than 1/16 inch in diameter.

According to the operator, the mechanic who completed the most recent 100-hr inspection examined the oil filter with the aid of a magnet and found no ferrous material and did not observe any significant amount of non-ferrous particles. In addition, the oil screen was examined, and no metallic material was found.

Lycoming Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 480F, Oil Servicing, Metallic Solids Identification After Oil Servicing, and Associated Corrective Action, states in part:

Oil Filter Element Inspection

1. Cut open the removed oil filter element with an approved tool (e.g., for full-flow filters, use Champion Tool CT-470) per the tool manufacturer's instructions.

2. Remove the paper element from the oil filter.

3. Carefully unfold the paper element to prevent loss of collected particles which can compromise the integrity of this inspection.

4. Examine the material trapped in the filter. Look for shiny metallic particles/residue, shavings or flakes. Refer to the sections: "Identification of Metallic Solids After Oil Servicing" and "Visual Inspection of the Oil Filter Element, Oil Pressure Screen, and Oil Suction Screen" in this Service Bulletin.

5. Record all inspection findings and any corrective action in the engine logbook.

Table 3

Guidelines for Particle Quantity and Size on Oil Filter, Oil Pressure Screen, or Oil Suction Screen


Recommended Corrective Action Options

Table 4


Recommended Corrective Action Options

(Refer to the applicable Lycoming Engine manual for procedures)


The closest weather reporting facility is Bettles Airport (PABT). At 0853, an METAR from PABT was reporting in part: wind, calm; visibility, 10 statute miles; sky condition, few clouds 11,000 feet; temperature, 66° F; dew point 55° F; and an altimeter setting of 30.11 inches of mercury. 

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial
Age: 48, Male
Airplane Rating(s): None
Seat Occupied: Right
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): Helicopter
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): Helicopter; Instrument Helicopter
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 2 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 01/03/2018
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 05/20/2018
Flight Time:  2791 hours (Total, all aircraft), 1566 hours (Total, this make and model), 2656 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 98 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 18 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 3 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Robinson
Registration: N744AK
Model/Series: R44 II
Aircraft Category: Helicopter
Year of Manufacture:2003 
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 10001
Landing Gear Type: High Skid;
Seats:
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 07/21/2018, 100 Hour
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2500 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 7327.4 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: C91 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: IO-540 SER
Registered Owner: Quicksilver Air Inc
Rated Power: 245 hp
Operator: Quicksilver Air Inc
Operating Certificate(s) Held: On-demand Air Taxi (135)

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: PABT
Distance from Accident Site:
Observation Time: 1753 UTC
Direction from Accident Site:
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 11000 ft agl
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: Calm /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:
Wind Direction:
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:
Altimeter Setting: 30.11 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 19°C / 13°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Bettles, AK
Type of Flight Plan Filed: Company VFR
Destination: Bettles, AK
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time:  AKD
Type of Airspace: Class G 

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 3 None

Latitude, Longitude: 66.860556, -151.645278 (est)

Location: Bettles, AK
Accident Number: ANC18LA058
Date & Time: 07/29/2018, 0912 AKD
Registration: N744AK
Aircraft: Robinson R44
Injuries: 3 None
Flight Conducted Under: Public Aircraft 

On July 29, 2018, at about 0912 Alaska daylight time, N744AK, a Robinson R44 II helicopter, sustained substantial damage during a forced landing following a total loss of engine power shortly after takeoff from the Bettles Airport (PABT), Bettles, Alaska. The commercial pilot and two passengers were not injured. The helicopter was registered to and operated by Quicksilver Air Inc., under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 public-use flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and company flight following procedures were in effect. The flight departed PABT about 0908.

According to the pilot, he had computed the weight and balance and performed a preflight inspection prior to departure. After the passengers boarded the helicopter, the engine was started, and all ground run-up checks of the engine were satisfactory. He stated that about 4 minutes after liftoff the helicopter lost all engine power. He entered an emergency autorotation and landed the helicopter in a bog. During the emergency landing, the tips of the helicopters skids broke though the vegetative matt on the bogs surface and the main rotor blades impacted the tailboom. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and tailboom.

The helicopter was equipped with a Lycoming IO-540-AE1A5 series engine, a detailed engine examination is pending.

The closest weather reporting facility is Bettles Airport (PABT). At 0853, an METAR from PABT was reporting in part: wind, calm; visibility, 10 statute miles; sky condition, few clouds 11,000 feet; temperature, 66° F; dew point 55° F; altimeter, 30.11 inches of mercury. 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Robinson
Registration: N744AK
Model/Series: R44 II
Aircraft Category: Helicopter
Amateur Built: No
Operator: Quicksilver Air Inc
Operating Certificate(s) Held: On-demand Air Taxi (135)

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site:
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: PABT
Observation Time: 1753 UTC
Distance from Accident Site:
Temperature/Dew Point: 19°C / 13°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 11000 ft agl
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: Calm
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility: 10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 30.11 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: Company VFR
Departure Point: Bettles, AK
Destination: Bettles, AK

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 3 None
Latitude, Longitude:  66.860556, -151.645278 (est)