Saturday, March 23, 2019

Loss of Control in Flight: Cessna R172E, N7879N; accident occurred March 23, 2019 near Northern Colorado Regional Airport (KFNL), Loveland, Larimer County, Colorado








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; Denver, Colorado

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Loveland, Colorado
Accident Number: CEN19LA107
Date & Time: March 23, 2019, 10:43 Local 
Registration: N7879N
Aircraft: Cessna R172E 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight 
Injuries: 1 Serious, 2 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

As the pilot approached the airport, another pilot heard him on the radio and advised him of "significant downdrafts" on the approach to runway 15. The pilot acknowledged the transmission and continued his approach. When he turned onto the base leg, he encountered the "severe downdraft/microburst" the other pilot had mentioned. He applied full power in an attempt to climb out, but the airplane continued to descend striking a power-line and tree, and subsequently impacted terrain.

A review of the weather showed that a complex wind pattern existed over the area during the period with a wind shift occurring immediately after the time of the accident. No support for convective microburst activity was noted over the area; however, a large area of light intensity precipitation with some potential for some outflow was noted, which could have been resulted in the different winds occurring over the accident site during the period. In addition, the High Resolution Rapid Refresh model sounding and satellite imagery and pilot reports noted support for mountain wave activity over the area, which supported downslope winds and downdraft activity in the area at the time of the accident. The National Weather Service had AIRMET advisories for turbulence and IFR and mountain obscuration conditions over the area, but no advisory for low-level wind shear.

It is likely the pilot encountered shifting winds due to weather system in the area. With his reduced engine power on the base leg of the traffic pattern, the pilot most likely got into a downdraft that produced a sink rate that he could not recover from.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
An inflight loss of control on landing approach due to encountering a down-draft, and the pilot's failure to take timely action to abandon the approach and perform a go-around.

Findings

Environmental issues Downdraft - Awareness of condition
Environmental issues Downdraft - Contributed to outcome
Personnel issues Incorrect action performance - Pilot

Factual Information

On March 23, 2019, at 1043 mountain daylight time, a Cessna R172E, N7879N, was destroyed when it struck a power line and impacted a dairy farm 1.5 miles northwest of runway 15 at Northern Colorado Regional Airport (FNL), Loveland, Colorado. The pilot was seriously injured and his two passengers sustained minor injuries. The airplane was registered to the U.S. Air Force and operated by the Peterson Air Force Base (AFB) Aero Club, Peterson AFB, Colorado, under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident, and no flight plan had been filed for the personal cross-country flight. The flight originated from the City of Colorado Springs Municipal Airport (COS), and was en route to FNL.

The pilot, a 10-year U.S. Army UH-60M Blackhawk helicopter pilot, said he was accumulating fixed-wing civilian flight time and had brought along two passengers. According to the pilot, he and his passengers intended to fly from COS to FNL and return. He said he was weather briefed for the flight and received multiple weather briefings before takeoff. As they approached FNL from the southwest, he
made a call on FNL's common traffic advisory frequency (CTAF) and reported he was entering a right traffic pattern for runway 15. Another pilot heard the report and advised him of "significant downdrafts" on the approach to runway 15. The pilot acknowledged the transmission and continued his approach. When he turned onto the base leg, he encountered the "severe downdraft/microburst" the other pilot had mentioned. He applied full power in an attempt to climb out, but the airplane struck a power-line and tree, and impacted terrain.

At 1056, the automated weather observation station at FNL reported, wind 170° at 11 kts, visibility of 10 miles, light rain, few clouds at 1,600 ft, ceilings 3,800 ft broken, 4,800 ft overcast, temperature 43° F, dew point 36° F, and altimeter setting 29.93 inches of Mercury.

A NTSB Meteorologist's review of the weather showed that a complex wind pattern existed over the area during the period with a wind shift occurring immediately after the time of the accident. No support for convective microburst activity was noted over the area; however, a large area of light intensity precipitation with some potential for some outflow was noted, which could have been resulted in the different winds occurring over the accident site during the period. In addition, the High Resolution Rapid Refresh model sounding and satellite imagery and pilot reports noted support for mountain wave activity over the area, which supported downslope winds and downdraft activity in the area at the time of the accident. The National Weather Service had AIRMET advisories for turbulence and IFR and mountain obscuration conditions over the area, but no advisory for low-level wind shear.

History of Flight

Approach-VFR pattern base Other weather encounter
Approach-VFR pattern base Loss of control in flight (Defining event)
Uncontrolled descent Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial; Military; Private
Age: 31, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land 
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Helicopter 
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None 
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 1 Without waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: January 14, 2019
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: September 11, 2018
Flight Time: 1235 hours (Total, all aircraft), 52 hours (Total, this make and model), 31 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 7 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna 
Registration: N7879N
Model/Series: R172E
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1967
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal 
Serial Number: R172-0270
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: January 2, 2019 Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2500 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 44.3 Hrs 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 17752.1 Hrs at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Continental
ELT: Installed
Engine Model/Series: IO-360-DB
Registered Owner:
Rated Power: 210 Horsepower
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: fnl,5016 ft msl 
Distance from Accident Site: 3 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 10:56 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 135°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 1600 ft AGL
Visibility:  10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 3800 ft AGL
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 11 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 170° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 29.93 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 6°C / 2°C
Precipitation and Obscuration:
Departure Point: Colorado Springs, CO (COS)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: Military VFR
Destination: Loveland, CO (FNL)
Type of Clearance: VFR
Departure Time: 09:15 Local
Type of Airspace: Class E

Airport Information

Airport: Northern Colorado Regional FNL
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 5016 ft msl
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 15 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 8500 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Traffic pattern

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Serious
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 2 Minor 
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Serious, 2 Minor 
Latitude, Longitude:  40.451946,-105.01139(est)














Three people were hospitalized after a small plane crashed south of Fort Collins on Saturday morning.

Larimer County Sheriff's Office and Loveland Fire Authority officials responded to the plane crash in the 2800 block of East County Road 30 about 10:43 a.m. Saturday.

The pilot and two passengers were taken by ambulance to the Medical Center of the Rockies with injuries authorities believe are not life-threatening, sheriff's office Lt. Jeff Vanhook said. 

"Looking at the damage to the plane, we feel very fortunate," Vanhook said. "We're hopeful they will have a full recovery."

Two people inside the plane were able to get out unassisted, and the third person got out with assistance from others at the scene before emergency responders arrived, Vanhook said. 

The plane was traveling southwest when it crashed, clipping a power line and damaging a power pole, Vanhook said. Poudre Valley REA, who responded to the scene, confirmed the power line was not live.

The plane also lost about half of a tank of fuel, causing the plane and nearby ground to catch fire immediately after the crash, Loveland Fire Authority Battalion Chief Tim Smith said. 

County Road 30 remained closed in that area Saturday afternoon. Sheriff's office Capt. Mike Loberg said there is no estimated time of the road reopening. The road will remain closed while crews fix the damaged power line and authorities wait for officials from the National Transportation Safety Board to remove the plane from the scene.

NTSB will conduct a joint investigation into the crash with the Federal Aviation Administration. Loberg said the sheriff's office will not release any additional information about the crash unless the investigation reveals criminal activity. 

Vanhook said they do not have any information about the cause of the crash, where the plane departed from or its destination. He added they are working with the FAA to see if they have any radio transmission from the plane prior to the crash that would help them better understand its cause.

Because the crash occurred off Northern Colorado Regional Airport property, it had no effect on airport operations, according to a tweet from the airport's account. 

Anyone with information regarding the crash who has not spoken with investigators is asked to call the Larimer County Sheriff's Office at 970-416-1985 or Crime Stoppers at 970-221-6868 where it's possible to remain anonymous. 

Story and video ➤ https://www.coloradoan.com




The three people aboard a single-engine plane survived when the aircraft crashed Saturday morning at a farm north of Loveland.

The plane hit power lines and possibly a tree as it came down about 10:40 a.m. next to a driveway of a dairy farm at the southwest corner of County Road 30 and County Road 9 (Boyd Lake Avenue), just northwest of the Northern Colorado Regional Airport.

Fuel leaking from the plane started a fire on the ground that Loveland Fire Rescue Authority crews were able to extinguish, according to fire battalion chief Tim Smith.

The three occupants were out of the plane, which was lying in pieces under and next to the tree, by the time emergency crews arrived, Smith said.

"Two of the passengers were able to get out of the aircraft without assistance, and one got out of the aircraft with the assistance of a passerby," said Larimer County Sheriff's Office Lt. Jeff Vanhook.

He said all three were taken to Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland with injuries that appeared to be non-life-threatening. The names of the pilot and passengers have not been released.

"Looking at the damage to the plane, we feel very fortunate that -— we're hopeful that they will have a full recovery," Vanhook said.

"We believe the aircraft clipped a power line and one of the support lines," he said.

VanHook didn't know if the plane also hit the large tree under which some of the wreckage was lying, but the tree appeared to have torn bark and broken limbs on that side.

Next to the tree, just off County Road 30, a power pole had been sheared off about 6 feet off the ground. The top part of the pole was standing upright next to the stump, supported by the lines that remained intact.

The plane's wing lay under the tree, part of its nose section next to it, with the rest of the fuselage, upside-down, a little to the south.

After the ambulances left with the plane's occupants, a Poudre Valley REA crew worked on the power lines.

Smith said one of the concerns was the fire danger from the fuel that remained in the plane. He said the tanks were full when the plane crashed, and about half of the fuel remained onboard.

Sheriff's Office Capt. Mike Loberg said witnesses reported that the plane "looked like it was standing still. It was moving very slowly" before it hit.

The plane was traveling to the southwest when it crashed, Vanhook said.

Jason Licon, director of the Northern Colorado Regional Airport, said he doesn't believe that the plane came from the airport, but wasn't sure.

He said the crash didn't affect operations at the airport.

Fort Collins resident Glenn Dawson, a private pilot, drove to the site after the crash to briefly watch the crews at work.

He said he was in the air at the same time as the plane that crashed, and he landed right before the accident. He didn't know about the crash until he went inside the airport, he said.

Dawson said he couldn't say much about the crash until he is interviewed by the Federal Aviation Administration, but he said he experienced downdrafts in the area when he was flying.

He said the plane that crashed was a high-wing Cessna.

Vanhook said the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board would investigate the accident.

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

Avid Magnum, N2137G: Accident occurred September 06, 2018 in Carrabassett Valley, Franklin County, Maine

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Portland, Maine

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


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


Aviation Accident Data Summary - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf 
 
https://registry.faa.gov/N2137G




Location: Carrabassett Valley, ME
Accident Number: GAA18CA538
Date & Time: 09/06/2018, 1050 EDT
Registration: N2137G
Aircraft: Avid AVID MAGNUM
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT)
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under:  Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

Analysis 

The pilot reported that, after the sky cleared, he departed the airport following another airplane as a flight of two. During the flight, they approached a ridge with no significant turbulence or issues. He added that they were suddenly in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), and the lead airplane disappeared. He immediately changed course 10° to the left, and as he transitioned to instrument flying, the airplane encountered a downdraft. Shortly thereafter, the windscreen "filled with trees," which he estimated were less than a 100 ft away. He pitched the nose up to dissipate energy, and the airplane subsequently impacted trees and terrain.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.

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

The nearest official weather reporting station, which was 16 miles southwest of the accident site, reported, about the time of the accident, 10 miles visibility, temperature 70°F, dew point 66°F, a broken layer at 2,700 ft, a second broken layer at 3,200 ft, and an overcast layer at 4,100 ft. Although these were marginal visual flight rules conditions, given the mountainous terrain, the pilot should have expected that the mountain peaks may become obscured, and with a 4° temperature/dew point spread that visibility conditions could change rapidly.

The pilot recommended that he should have flown his original flight plan, which was at a lower altitude so that he could have avoided unexpected and unpredicted winds and entering IMC. 

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot's improper decision to initiate the flight in marginal visual flight rules over mountainous terrain, which resulted in an inadvertent encounter with instrument meteorological and downdraft conditions and the subsequent controlled flight into trees and terrain.

Findings

Personnel issues
Decision making/judgment - Pilot (Cause)

Environmental issues
Below VFR minima - Decision related to condition (Cause)
Below VFR minima - Effect on personnel
Mountainous/hilly terrain - Effect on operation
Downdraft - Effect on operation

Factual Information

History of Flight

Enroute
VFR encounter with IMC
Other weather encounter
Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT) (Defining event)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial; Military
Age: 66, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land; Single-engine Sea
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: BasicMed Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 08/30/2018
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 07/09/2018
Flight Time: (Estimated) 4581 hours (Total, all aircraft), 175 hours (Total, this make and model), 4381 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 23 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 6 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Avid
Registration: N2137G
Model/Series: AVID MAGNUM No Series
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2000
Amateur Built: Yes
Airworthiness Certificate: Experimental
Serial Number: 0095
Landing Gear Type: Amphibian; Tandem
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 05/12/2018, Condition
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1800 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 178.5 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: C91  installed, activated, aided in locating accident
Engine Model/Series: O-320-E2D
Registered Owner: On file
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: K8B0, 1825 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 16 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1452 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 239°
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 2700 ft agl
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 5 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 330°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.11 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 21°C / 19°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Rangeley, ME (M57)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Greenville, ME (3B1)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1025 EDT
Type of Airspace: Class E 

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: 45.133333, -70.333333 (est)

CubCrafters CC18-180, N413CC: Accidents occurred November 08, 2021 and September 05, 2018










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; Fairbanks, Alaska

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board: 

United States Department of the Interior

National Park Service


Location: Yukon Charlie River, Alaska
Accident Number: ANC22LA006
Date and Time: November 8, 2021, 15:15 Local 
Registration: N413CC
Aircraft: CUB CRAFTERS INC CC18-180 
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Public aircraft

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: CUB CRAFTERS INC 
Registration: N413CC
Model/Series: CC18-180 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built:
Operator:
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None
Operator Designator Code:

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: VMC 
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: PAEG,898 ft msl 
Observation Time: 15:53 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 59 Nautical Miles 
Temperature/Dew Point: -15°C /-18°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: 
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: / ,
Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 6000 ft AGL
Visibility: 10 miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.93 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: Company VFR
Departure Point: Eagle, AK (PAEG) 
Destination: Yukon Charlie River, AK

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None 
Latitude, Longitude: 65.300192,-143.13334 (est)




Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Fairbanks, Alaska

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

U.S. Department of the Interior

National Park Service


Location: Northway, AK
Accident Number: GAA18CA541
Date & Time: 09/05/2018, 1625 AKD
Registration: N413CC
Aircraft: CUB CRAFTERS INC CC18
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Birdstrike
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Other Work Use 

Analysis 

The pilot reported that, during straight-and-level flight, a large bird struck the airplane's right wing. The airplane's control became degraded, and the pilot chose an off-airport landing site and landed the airplane without further incident.

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 airplane's collision with a bird during straight-and-level flight.

Findings

Environmental issues
Animal(s)/bird(s) - Effect on operation (Cause)

Factual Information

History of Flight

Enroute
Birdstrike (Defining event)

Landing
Off-field or emergency landing

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline Transport; Flight Instructor; Commercial
Age: 64, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land; Single-engine Sea
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter
Restraint Used: 4-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: 03/22/2018
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 04/06/2018
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 20499 hours (Total, all aircraft), 664 hours (Total, this make and model), 20174 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 152 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 36 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: CUB CRAFTERS INC
Registration: N413CC
Model/Series: CC18 180
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2013
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Restricted; Normal
Serial Number: CC18-0065
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 08/20/2018, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2300 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 740.6 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: C126 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: O-360-C4P
Registered Owner: Us Dept Of The Interior
Rated Power: 180 hp
Operator: National Park Service
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: PABN, 2880 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 14 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 0053 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 296°
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 5000 ft agl
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 5 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 310°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.28 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 12°C / 4°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Chisana, AK (CZN)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: Company VFR
Destination: Gulkana, AK (GKN)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1555 AKD
Type of Airspace: Class G

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:  62.300278, -142.533333 (est)

Piper PA-12 Super Cruiser, N7690H: Accident occurred September 04, 2018 in Talkeetna and Incident occurred November 07, 2017 on Montague Island, Alaska

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Anchorage, Alaska

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


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


Aviation Accident Data Summary - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

http://registry.faa.gov/N7690H

Location: Talkeetna, AK
Accident Number: GAA18CA535
Date & Time: 09/04/2018, 1600 AKD
Registration: N7690H
Aircraft: Piper PA 12
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Nose over/nose down
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 
Analysis 

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while landing uphill at an off-airport unimproved landing site where he had landed before, he applied the brakes, and that the airplane then hit a "bush or a bump," which caused the tail to rise. Subsequently, the propeller struck the ground, and the airplane nosed over.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage, fuselage, and wing spars.

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 failure to maintain pitch control on uneven terrain during the landing roll, which resulted in a nose-over.

Findings

Aircraft
Pitch control - Not attained/maintained (Cause)

Personnel issues
Aircraft control - Pilot (Cause)

Environmental issues
Mountainous/hilly terrain - Effect on operation

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing
Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)
Nose over/nose down (Defining event)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 37, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 5-point
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 04/14/2016
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 11/12/2016
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 242.9 hours (Total, all aircraft), 224.3 hours (Total, this make and model), 192.8 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 82 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 28.2 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper
Registration: N7690H
Model/Series:  PA 12 No Series
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1946
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 12-580
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 04/04/2018, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1933 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 3715 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: C126 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: O-235-A2B
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: PATK, 356 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 40 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 2353 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 259°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 5000 ft agl
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling:
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: Calm /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction:
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.24 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 15°C / 8°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Talkeetna, AK (TKA)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Talkeetna, AK
Type of Clearance: VFR
Departure Time: 1520 AKD
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: 62.452778, -148.686944 (est)

November 07, 2017:  Aircraft on taxi on the beach of Chenega Bay, struck the propeller.

Date: 07-NOV-17
Time: 00:00:00Z
Regis#: N7690H
Aircraft Make: PIPER
Aircraft Model: PA12
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: UNKNOWN
Flight Phase: TAXI (TXI)
Operation: 91
City: CHENEGA BAY
State: ALASKA

Taylorcraft BC12-D, N95514: Accident occurred September 04, 2018 in Cut Bank, Glacier County, Montana

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Helena, Montana

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


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


Aviation Accident Data Summary - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf


https://registry.faa.gov/N95514


Location: Cut Bank, MT
Accident Number: GAA18CA533
Date & Time: 09/04/2018, 1920 MDT
Registration: N95514
Aircraft: Taylorcraft BC12
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Miscellaneous/other
Injuries: 2 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

Analysis 

The pilot reported that, while flying west to check some fields and circle a friend's house, he began a right, descending turn about 200 ft above ground level. He added that he was aware of power wires in the area, but the sun was in his eyes, and the airplane was lower than he thought. The airplane struck power wires and then impacted terrain.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.

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 failure to see and avoid power wires while maneuvering at low altitude. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's inability to determine the airplane's altitude due to sun glare.

Findings

Aircraft
Altitude - Not attained/maintained (Cause)

Personnel issues
Monitoring environment - Pilot (Cause)

Environmental issues
Wire - Effect on operation (Cause)
Glare - Effect on personnel (Factor)

Factual Information

History of Flight

Maneuvering-low-alt flying
Low altitude operation/event
Miscellaneous/other (Defining event)
Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 25, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: Lap Only
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present:No 
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 10/27/2014
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 01/27/2018
Flight Time: (Estimated) 62 hours (Total, all aircraft), 17 hours (Total, this make and model), 30 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 17 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 14 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information


Aircraft Make: Taylorcraft
Registration: N95514
Model/Series: BC12 D
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1946
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Utility
Serial Number: 7814
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 05/31/2018, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1200 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 5025.5 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Continental
ELT: Not installed
Engine Model/Series: C65
Registered Owner: Skierka, Leo F.
Rated Power: 75 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Dusk
Observation Facility, Elevation: KCTB, 3838 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 6 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 0156 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 125°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 7 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 110°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.23 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 13°C / 1°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Cut Bank, MT (CTB)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Cut Bank, MT (CTB)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1800 MDT
Type of Airspace: Class G

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 Minor
Latitude, Longitude:  48.659722, -112.496111 (est)