Wednesday, September 11, 2019

Controlled Flight Into Object: Cessna 150M, N9492U; fatal accident occurred September 09, 2019 in Whitehall, Muskegon County, Michigan






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; Grand Rapids, Michigan 

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Whitehall, Michigan
Accident Number: CEN19LA308
Date and Time: September 9, 2019, 11:40 Local
Registration: N9492U
Aircraft: Cessna 150 
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT)
Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The pilot was conducting a personal flight in visual meteorological conditions below the minimum safe altitudes and over congested areas when the airplane impacted the center of a water tower. Witnesses observed the airplane in straight and level flight before impact and reported the engine was running at that time. Examination of the wreckage revealed no anomalies that would have prevented the pilot from maneuvering to avoid the tower.

The pilot’s toxicology results were positive for an antidepressant and a sedating antihistamine. The pilot was operating the airplane with an expired medical certificate, and his medical records indicated that he had been prescribed an antidepressant to treat anxiety/depression. This medication required the pilot to obtain a special issuance medical certificate before operating the airplane. It could not be determined if the pilot was impaired by his use of these medications or by the underlying conditions that warranted the medication.

The reasons that the pilot operated the airplane over a congested area at a low altitude and failed to avoid the water tower could not be determined based on the available evidence for this investigation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot’s flight into a water tower while operating below minimum safe altitudes for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence for this investigation.

Findings

Aircraft Altitude - Incorrect use/operation
Aircraft Directional control - Incorrect use/operation
Environmental issues Tower/antenna (incl guy wires) - Contributed to outcome

Factual Information

History of Flight

Enroute-cruise Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT) (Defining event)

On September 9, 2019, about 1140 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 150 airplane, N9492U, was involved in an accident when it impacted a water tower in Whitehall, Michigan. The pilot was fatally injured, and the airplane was destroyed. The airplane was operated under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.

The flight originated from Fremont Municipal Airport (FFX), Fremont, Michigan, about 1115. The pilot’s intended destination could not be determined from the available evidence for this investigation. Witnesses reported observing the airplane flying from the north-northeast at a low altitude and in straight and level flight before the airplane impacted the 180-ft-tall municipal water tower, which was located in a densely populated area about 17 miles west of the departure airport. The witnesses also reported hearing the engine operating at a high-power setting when the impact occurred.

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private 
Age: 79, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land 
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None 
Restraint Used: None
Instrument Rating(s): None 
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None 
Toxicology Performed: Yes
Medical Certification: Class 3 None
Last FAA Medical Exam: November 1, 1998
Occupational Pilot: No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:

No pilot logbooks were found during the investigation. The pilot reported a total flight experience of 2,000 hours at the time of his last medical exam, which occurred more than 20 years before the accident. The FAA had no records indicating that the pilot had renewed his third-class medical certificate after it expired.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna
Registration: N9492U
Model/Series: 150M
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1976 
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Utility
Serial Number: 15078440
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle 
Seats:
Date/Type of Last Inspection: Unknown
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1601 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 
Engine Manufacturer: Continental
ELT: 
Engine Model/Series: O-200 SERIES
Registered Owner:
Rated Power: 100 Horsepower
Operator: On file 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

No maintenance logbooks were located during the investigation.

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KMKG,633 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 17 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 11:55 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 142°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Scattered / 3500 ft AGL
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: None 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 9 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 90° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 29.56 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 17.8°C / 11.1°C
Precipitation and Obscuration:
Departure Point: Fremont, MI (FFX) 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination:
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 11:15 Local 
Type of Airspace:

Airport Information

Airport: Fremont Municipal Airport KFFX 
Runway Surface Type:
Airport Elevation: 771 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Unknown
Runway Used: 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width:
VFR Approach/Landing: None

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude: 43.405555,-86.335556(est)

The water tower showed impact damage near the center of the tank that was consistent with the damage noted on the leading edge of the wings and the propeller. The damage to the airplane and the water tower was consistent with the airplane impacting the water tower perpendicular to the tank. The impact was on an approximate heading of 225°. The airplane wreckage was aligned on an approximate heading of 260°. The wreckage was mostly contained to an area that was 15 ft in diameter in the northeast corner of a fenced lot containing the water tower. Miscellaneous debris consisting of a nose and main landing gear tire and small pieces of metal, plastic, and windshield were located within a 130-ft radius of the main wreckage.

Most of the cockpit area and fuselage were consumed by postimpact fire. Flight control continuity was established from the elevators, rudder, and ailerons to the cockpit area, but the impact and fire damage prevented control continuity from being established within the cockpit. The flaps were attached to the wings in the retracted position, the flap cables were intact, and continuity was established between the flaps.

The engine was located under fire-damaged fuselage debris. The engine sustained impact and fire damage and was found fragmented. The engine crankcase was fractured, and cylinders were expelled from the crankcase. The crankshaft was fractured with a part still attached to the propeller.

The propeller had separated from the engine and came to rest under the horizontal and vertical stabilizers. The propeller was damaged from its impact with the water tower. The spinner assembly was flattened and deformed into the propeller hub, and a circular flattening was observed. The propeller mounting bolts were sheared and exhibited rotational bending. One blade was bent aft at the tip, bent midspan, and had chordwise scratching. The other blade was bent aft near the blade root and had chordwise scratching. No airframe or engine anomalies consistent with a preimpact failure or malfunction were noted.

Additional Information

Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations 91.119, Minimum Safe Altitudes, states in part the following:

Except when necessary for takeoff or landing, no person may operate an aircraft below the following altitudes…Over any congested area of a city, town, or settlement, or over any open air assembly of persons, an altitude of 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet of the aircraft.

Medical and Pathological Information

The Western Michigan University School of Medicine, Medical Examiner and Forensic Services, performed an autopsy of the pilot. His cause of death was multiple injuries. Toxicology testing performed at the Federal Aviation Administration’s Forensic Sciences Laboratory detected citalopram, N-desmethylcitalopram, and diphenhydramine in the pilot’s specimens.

Citalopram is a prescription medication used to treat various conditions, including depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. N-desmethylcitalopram is a metabolite of citalopram. Diphenhydramine is a sedating antihistamine used to treat allergic conditions and facilitate sleep.

The patient instructions for citalopram state the following:

Because psychoactive drugs may impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills, patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles, until they are reasonably certain that [citalopram] therapy does not affect their ability to engage in such activities.

The effects of long-term use of citalopram on performance is not known. The FAA requires pilots using antidepressants, including citalopram, to have a special issuance medical certificate.

The pilot’s personal medical records for the 3 years before the accident were reviewed. The records revealed that the pilot had a longstanding history of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and an anxiety disorder. He used lisinopril to treat his high blood pressure, atorvastatin to treat his high cholesterol, and escitalopram to treat anxiety/depression. These records did not mention of the extent or seriousness of the pilot’s anxiety/depression.

Major depression is associated with significant cognitive degradation, particularly in executive functioning skills. The cognitive degradation may not improve even with remission of a depressed episode, and patients with severe depression are more significantly affected than those with fewer symptoms or episodes. 





Location: WHITEHALL, MI
Accident Number: CEN19LA308
Date & Time: 09/09/2019, 1140 EDT
Registration: N9492U
Aircraft: Cessna 150
Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On September 9, 2019, about 1140 eastern daylight time (EDT), a Cessna C-150 airplane, N9492U, impacted a water tower in Whitehall, Michigan. The pilot was fatally injured. The airplane was destroyed by the impact and a post crash fire. The airplane was operated by the pilot as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions were reported at the accident site at the time of the accident, and the flight was not operated on a flight plan. The flight originated from Fremont Municipal Airport (FFX), Fremont, Michigan, about 1115.

According to local law enforcement officials, witnesses observed the airplane flying straight and level prior to impact with a 180 ft tall municipal water tower. The witnesses also reported the engine appeared to be operating normally at a high power setting when the impact occurred.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna
Registration: N9492U
Model/Series: 150 M
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: No
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: 
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: None
Departure Point: Fremont, MI (FFX)
Destination:

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude: 43.405556, -86.335556 (est)


James Joseph Laird 

Laird, James 11/20/1939 - 9/9/2019
Twin Lake 

James Laird, age 79, passed away unexpectedly doing what he loved to do on September 9th, 2019. He was born in Muskegon, MI on November 20, 1939 to Galen & Henrietta (Fortenbacher) Laird. He married the former Carol Schultz and then married Janice Mabrey Wisniewski. Mr. Laird had been owner/operator at Laird Heating and Cooling. 

James liked flying planes, model trains & his dog, Dutch. 

SURVIVORS 
Wife, Janice; Sons, Jeff (Deb) Laird of Blue Lake & Brian (Patti) Laird of Whitehall; step- daughters, Lynn Lindsey & Staci Boike; grandsons, Kyle Laird, Dustin Laird, Matt (Jenna) Laird, Devon (Matt) Cowles & Austin Boike; great grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Marge Laird & Rosemary Laird; nephew, Bob Laird & other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, William & Robert; sister, Mary Margaret & step son, Steve. 

SERVICE 
According to Jim's wishes there will be no services. 
Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory.






A private plane struck the Whitehall water tower near the intersection of Warner St. and Sophia St. at 11:42 a.m. Monday, September 9th, killing the pilot.

By later Monday the name of the deceased pilot was released. He was James Joseph Laird, age 79 of Twin Lake.

Family members were at the crash site while remains of the plane were removed.

A son, Brian Laird, said his dad had flown for many years, and he kept his airplane at the Fremont airport. "We're in the dark about what happened," he said.

The crash occurred across the road from the main Whitehall District Schools campus which includes the middle school, the football stadium and community center with pre-school. Also next to the water tower are the school baseball and softball fields.

The plane burst into flames upon impact, according to witnesses.

The plane wreckage was mostly contained within the boundary fence surrounding the water tower. The wheels were found on Sophia Street and smaller parts were scattered in nearby yards and grassy areas.

A small dent and scorch mark can be seen on the water tower where it was struck.

Whitehall schools immediately alerted parents about the incident and that their children were safe. However, it is believed some children on the football field and preschool playground witnessed the crash.

Whitehall Police Chief Roger Squiers said all public safety departments in the area responded to the scene, and a White Lake Fire Authority member was first on the scene.

Squiers said the flames were quickly extinguished.

White Lake Fire Authority Chief Gregory Holman said WLFA, Montague Fire and Blue Lake Twp were dispatched to the scene at 11:42 a.m. "Montague and Blue Lake are on automatic aid for a scenario like that," Holman explained.

The chief said the WLFA initiated the fire attack and Montague was quickly on the scene to supply WLFA's mini-pumper.

Dalton Township and Norton Shores fire departments reached out to provide command assistance.

Because the fire was extinguished quickly, Holman said Blue Lake was moved to the WLFA Station One to provide coverage while WLFA was on the airplane crash scene. Blue Lake was released at 3 p.m., and had responded to calls during that time.

Holman said Norton Shores was helpful because it deals with air traffic control at the Muskegon County Airport and has resources.

Norton Shores and Central Dispatch helped contact outside agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration for an investigation, and the Medical Examiner to official declare the pilot deceased.

The WLFA chief said that once the fire was extinguished their efforts turned to blocking out outside traffic and preserving the scene by marking location of debris.

Firefighters also helped remove the body from the wreckage for the Medical Examiner.

Law enforcement at the scene were the Whitehall and Montague city police, Muskegon County Sheriff's Department and the Michigan State Police.

Emergency Medical Services were provided by Pro-Med and White Lake Ambulance Authority.

The Muskegon County Emergency Services also provided support.

The local McDonalds restaurant sent over cheeseburgers and French Fries for first responders who were at the crash scene.

"It was a unified incident command," the fire chief said. "It was a very great joint effort from law enforcement, EMS, fire and even Whitehall DPW becasue it involved the water tower. It was an unfortunate event, but very successful because it demonstrated the cooperation between all our agencies."

Holman said Central Dispatch played a key role by sending out resources while also handling many calls reporting the crash.

“In the initial assessment there was one male passenger in the plane.,” reported Squiers in mid-afternoon.

He said the single engine plane originated from the Fremont Airport and the pilot lived east of Whitehall.

The plane was headed from the northeast in a southwesterly direction, the chief explained.

He said witnesses indicated the plane showed a level flight with no veering and no signs of engine problems.

“We don’t know where the pilot was going or what his intentions were,” Squiers added.

Jeremy Watts, one of the eyewitnesses to the crash, works at a home across Sophia Street from the 500,000 gallon, 180 foot tall water tower.

“I was standing in the yard at 820 Sophia Street and was walking back (to the house) when I looked overhead and saw the plane.”

Watts said the plane engine was loud because it was flying so low. “It hit the water tower straight on. I immediately called 911. It (plane) went straight down and there was black smoke where it hit. I ran up to the fence but didn’t see much.

“It’s the craziest thing I have seen in my life. There was so much black smoke and fire.”

Immediately after the crash smoke could be seen from the crash site for several blocks to the west.

City of Whitehall Department of Public Works Director Brian Armstrong and City Manager Scott Huebler were at the scene.

Huebler said Armstrong was working on arranging for engineers to check the integrity of the water tower.

“In the meantime we are taking it out of service,” added Huebler who said DPW personnel will be draining the water tower until it is inspected.

“We have a second water tower so we don’t need it for normal operations,” Huebler said. “We won’t have to restrict water usage.”

The city manager said they have contacted the schools to tell officials that Warner Street, from Alice Street to Slocum Street will be off limits for buses for at least a day.

Original article ➤ https://www.shorelinemedia.net





WHITEHALL, Michigan (WOOD) — Authorities say a 79-year-old pilot is dead after his plane crashed into Whitehall’s water tower and caught fire.

Crews were called to the scene in the area of Warner and Sophia streets near Whitehall District Schools’ athletic fields around 11:42 a.m. Monday.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the wreckage. Crews put out the fire and determined the pilot of the single-engine plane had died.

Whitehall Police Chief Roger Squires identified the pilot as James Joseph Laird of Twin Lake. Laird took off from Fremont’s municipal airport about 45 minutes before the crash, according to authorities.

Investigators say it’s unclear what caused his plane to crash. They say Laird’s flight path didn’t change and there is no indication of engine problems based on the plane’s speed.

Online Federal Aviation Administration records show that Laird’s certification to fly expired in 2000, News 8 found.

School administrative staff told News 8 that there were no students and staff on the ground in that area when the crashed happened. Authorities confirmed no one else was injured in the incident.

The city has isolated the water tower from its system and shut it off until inspectors can evaluate the tower’s structure and water.

Investigators say the wreckage will remain at the scene for a few hours until the Federal Aviation Administration arrives.

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

WHITEHALL, Michigan -  A 79-year-old man is dead after his small aircraft crashed into the Whitehall water tower and landed near the Whitehall Public Schools' athletic fields.

Whitehall Police Chief Roger Squiers says the pilot, James Joseph Laird, who lives east of Whitehall, left the Fremont Airport about 45 minutes before the crash.  

The Federal Aviation Administration was on scene, investigating the crash as part of the NTSB's investigation into the situation. According to Elizabeth Cory, with the Public Affairs office of the FAA, investigators discovered Laird did not have a valid medical certificate -- which is required to pilot planes, including the Cessna 150M aircraft involved in the crash.

Jeremy Watts, a witness, said he watched Laird's plane hit the water tower. It sounded like a normal airplane but louder because it was so low to the ground.

"It hit the tower and just went straight down and then up in flames," Watts said.

There was no indication that the plane was experiencing mechanical issues, according to Squiers. A resident told authorities the single-engine plane was flying level with no veering and no change of speed.

The City of Whitehall shut off the water tower and will be testing it after the site is clear, as well as inspecting the integrity of the structure -- which authorities don't believe was harmed aside from the scuff mark on the front and a dent. 

Phoenix Air U-15, N443RM: Incident occurred September 09, 2019 at Minden-Tahoe Airport (KMEV), Douglas County, Nevada

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Reno

Motor glider experienced a prop strike.

https://registry.faa.gov/N443RM

Date: 09-SEP-19
Time: 16:00:00Z
Regis#: N443RM
Aircraft Make: PHOENIX
Aircraft Model: U15
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: MINDEN
State: NEVADA

Super Glasair II, N400MC: Accident occurred September 09, 2019 near Reno/Stead Airport (KRTS), Washoe County, Nevada

Havoc Air Racing


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

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Reno, Nevada

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

https://registry.faa.gov/N400MC

Location: Reno, NV
Accident Number: WPR19LA261
Date & Time: 09/09/2019, 1620 PDT
Registration: N400MC
Aircraft: Stoddard Hamilton GLASAIR II
Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On September 9, 2019, about 1620 Pacific daylight time, a Havoc Air Racing LLC Super GT 111 Airplane, N400MC, experienced an electrical failure while maneuvering near the Reno/Stead Airport (RTS), Reno, Nevada. The commercial pilot sustained minor injuries and the airplane sustained substantial damage. The airplane was registered to and operated by Havoc Air Racing LLC, as a 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The flight originated from RTS at about 1525.

The pilot reported that after finishing qualification laps, he pulled off the course for a cool down. As he prepared the airplane for landing, he attempted to lower the landing gear but the left main gear indicator light in the cockpit indicated the gear was unsafe. The pilot attempted to troubleshoot the problem, however, the gear never lowered. During this troubleshooting, the pilot also noticed that electrical bus 1 was no longer charging; shortly thereafter the airplane experienced an electrical failure and the engine quit. The pilot conducted a belly landing onto the runway and a post landing fire ensued.

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


Havoc Air Racing


Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Stoddard Hamilton
Registration: N400MC
Model/Series: GLASAIR II RG
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: Yes
Operator: Havoc Air Racing LLC
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None 

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KRTS, 5050 ft msl
Observation Time: 1615 PDT
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 21°C / -4°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 15 knots / , 230°
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility:  10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.94 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Reno, NV (RTS)
Destination: Reno, NV (RTS)

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: On-Ground
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Minor
Latitude, Longitude: 39.667500, -119.872500 (est)

Bombardier CRJ-900LR (CL-600-2D24), N569NN: Incident occurred September 09, 2019 at Piedmont Triad International Airport (KGSO), Greensboro, North Carolina

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Greensboro

Aircraft struck a bird on departure.

PSA Airlines on behalf of American Airlines

https://registry.faa.gov/N569NN

Date: 09-SEP-19
Time: 11:11:00Z
Regis#: N569NN
Aircraft Make: BOMBARDIER
Aircraft Model: CL600 2D24
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: COMMERCIAL
Flight Phase: TAKEOFF (TOF)
Operation: 121
Flight Number: JIA5384
City: GREENSBORO
State: NORTH CAROLINA

Loss of Control in Fight: Cessna 140, N73000; fatal accident occurred September 08, 2019 in Lakeview, South Dakota

Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

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

Additional Participating Entities: 
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Rapid City, South Dakota
Textron Aviation; Wichita, Kansas
Continental Motors; Mobile, Alabama 

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Lakeview, South Dakota
Accident Number: CEN19FA307
Date and Time: September 8, 2019, 00:00 Local
Registration: N73000
Aircraft: Cessna 140
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight 
Injuries: 2 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Aerial observation

Analysis

The student pilot was conducting a low-level aerial observation flight with his son to determine the level of water in towers on farms nearby. The time of the student pilot’s departure from his private airstrip and the time of the accident could not be determined. The amount of fuel in the airplane at takeoff was undetermined. After contact from concerned family members, law enforcement located the wreckage the next day about 825 ft from the approach end of the pilot's airstrip.

Postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no preimpact anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Airplane wreckage and impact signatures were consistent with the airplane being configured for landing. Propeller signatures indicated little or no rotation at the time of impact. The impact damage was consistent with a loss of control in flight, followed by the exceedance of the airplane's critical angle of attack and an aerodynamic stall. The reason for the loss of control in flight could not be determined.

The student pilot was taught to fly by his grandfather. It is possible the student pilot was teaching his son to fly; however, it was undetermined if that was occurring during the accident flight. The pilot held a student pilot certificate and therefore was prohibited by regulation from carrying a passenger. Additionally, the student pilot's endorsement for flight operations was expired, and he did not hold an endorsement for the accident airplane make and model.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:

The student pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane, which resulted in the exceedance of the airplane’s critical angle-of-attack, an aerodynamic stall, and subsequent impact with terrain, and the student pilot’s non-compliance and lack of experience.

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Student/instructed pilot
Aircraft Angle of attack - Capability exceeded
Personnel issues Monitoring equip/instruments - Student/instructed pilot
Not determined (general) - Unknown/Not determined
Personnel issues Qualification/certification - Student/instructed pilot
Personnel issues Total experience - Student/instructed pilot

Factual Information

History of Flight

Enroute Loss of control in flight (Defining event)
Enroute Aerodynamic stall/spin
Enroute Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

On September 8, 2019, at an undetermined time, a Cessna 140 airplane, N73000, sustained substantial damage when it was involved in an accident near Lakeview, South Dakota. The student pilot and passenger sustained fatal injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 aerial observation flight.

Local law enforcement reported that according to family members, the purpose of the flight was for the student pilot and his son to fly around the local area for the aerial observation of various large water towers stationed on farms on the Rosebud Indian Reservation. It was unknown what time the airplane departed for the flight from the student pilot's private airstrip.

The student pilot would normally fly the airplane low, over the water towers, and look down into the water towers to determine the water level. He would then report the water level to the farmers. It was unknown if the pilot was compensated by the farmers for performing the aerial observation work.

After not hearing from the student pilot and his son for several hours, concerned family members contacted local law enforcement officers, who then initiated a search for the missing airplane. The wreckage was located about 0800 central daylight time on September 9, 2019.

Pilot Information

Certificate: Student 
Age: 39,Male
Airplane Rating(s): None 
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: Yes
Medical Certification: Class 3 None
Last FAA Medical Exam: October 16, 2014
Occupational Pilot: No Last Flight Review or Equivalent: October 29, 2015
Flight Time: (Estimated) 40 hours (Total, all aircraft), 20 hours (Total, this make and model), 20 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft)

A review of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) electronic airmen registry for the student pilot revealed that he held a student pilot certificate. The limitation listed on the student pilot certificate states, "carrying passengers is prohibited." Title 14 CFR 61.89 discusses the limitations for student pilots and states that a student pilot may not act as a pilot-in-command of an aircraft that is carrying a passenger. It was undetermined if the passenger was manipulating the flight controls during the flight.

A review of the student pilot's logbook showed that he started logging flight time in August 2007 and that the last logged flight was in November 2015. The student pilot had received an endorsement to conduct solo flights in a Cessna 150 airplane. The endorsement was dated October 29, 2015, and expired in July 2016. No further endorsements were found. No solo flight endorsements were found listed for a Cessna 140. Title 14 CFR 61.87(n) discusses the limitations for student pilots operating an aircraft in solo flight and states the following:

A student pilot may not operate an aircraft in solo flight unless that student pilot has received an endorsement in the student's logbook for the specific make and model aircraft to be flown by an authorized instructor who gave the training within the 90 days preceding the date of the flight.

The flight instructor who provided the initial solo endorsement for the student pilot described the student pilot as a "safe pilot" except that he flew with his son and wasn’t supposed to as a student pilot. The flight instructor reported that the student pilot was taught to fly by his grandfather, who was not a certificated pilot. He further reported that the student pilot knew he was not supposed to fly with passengers as a student pilot.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna 
Registration: N73000
Model/Series: 140 Undesignated
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1946 
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 10205
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: May 7, 2019 Annual 
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1451 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 4 Hrs
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 2093.67 Hrs at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Continental Motors
ELT: C91 installed, activated, did not aid in locating accident
Engine Model/Series: C-85-12
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 85 Horsepower
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

The amount of fuel in the airplane before the flight departed was undetermined. The airframe and engine were modified to use automotive fuel (referred to as MOGAS) in accordance with FAA supplemental type certificates.

The airplane was not equipped with a carburetor temperature system or a stall warning indicator, nor was it required to be.

A review of the airplane's maintenance records revealed no evidence of any uncorrected mechanical discrepancies with the airframe and engine.

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Dusk
Observation Facility, Elevation: KVTN,2590 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 15 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 00:52 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 131°
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 2200 ft AGL
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 6 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 50° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 29.97 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 16°C / 11°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Lakeview, SD (None) 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Lakeview, SD (None)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 
Type of Airspace: Class G

A review of weather data from 1652 to 2152 from the Miller Field Airport (VTN), Valentine, Nebraska, showed temperatures between 16°C (60.8°F) and 19°C (66.2°F), along with dew points between 11°C (51.8°F) and 12°C (53.6°F). The reported conditions for those times indicated a probability of serious icing at either cruise or glide power settings per the carburetor icing probability graph from the FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin CE-09-35 Carburetor Icing Prevention.

Airport Information

Airport: Private Airstrip None
Runway Surface Type: Dirt; Grass/turf
Airport Elevation: 2923 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width:
VFR Approach/Landing: Forced landing

The student pilot's private airstrip, which was about 65 ft wide and 1,850 ft long, consisted of grass and dirt. The airstrip was about 5.5 miles southwest of Lakeview and was oriented about 350° and about 170° (runway 35-17, respectively). It was undetermined if the airstrip had runway lighting.

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 Fatal 
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 Fatal 
Latitude, Longitude: 43.039443,-100.80555(est)

The airplane came to rest on a heading of 24° and at an elevation of 2,910 ft above mean sea level on grass. The airplane was about 825 ft to the northwest of the approach end of runway 17 at the student pilot's private airstrip.

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

Evidence was consistent with the airplane impacting terrain in a near-vertical, nose-down, leftwing-low attitude. The tail was bent slightly up and over the fuselage. The left- and right-wing leading edges sustained significant impact compression damage. All components of the airframe and engine were located at the accident site. Flight control continuity was established for the airframe. 

Control continuity was established for the engine.

A flap impact-related witness mark was observed on the right side of the fuselage indicating the flaps were extended at the time of impact.

Due to impact damage, the position of the carburetor heat control at the time of the accident was not determined.

The two wing fuel tanks were breached from the accident sequence, and the fuel level at the time of impact was undetermined. A small amount of fuel was obtained from both fuel tanks.

The fuel had unknown debris in it and was a slight yellow color.

The propeller remained attached to the engine. One propeller blade remained relatively straight and exhibited paint burnishing with diagonal scratches on the cambered side. The other propeller blade was bent aft around the engine cowling at approximately midspan and did not exhibit rotational impact signatures.

The examination revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe and engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Medical and Pathological Information

The Sanford Health Pathology Clinic, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, conducted an autopsy of the pilot. The cause of the death was attributed to multiple blunt force injuries.

The FAA's Forensic Sciences Laboratory, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, performed toxicology tests on specimens from the pilot; testing was negative for carbon monoxide and ethanol.

Organizational and Management Information

FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin CE-09-35 Carburetor Icing Prevention informs pilots of the potential hazards associated with carburetor icing. This document does not include information about the probability of carburetor icing occurring with MOGAS. The FAA reported it has not published any information or disclaimers for the public about MOGAS and the formation of carburetor icing.

=========

Location: Lakeview, SD
Accident Number: CEN19FA307
Date & Time: 09/08/2019, 2000 CDT
Registration: N73000
Aircraft: Cessna 140
Injuries: 2 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Aerial Observation 

On September 8, 2019, about 2000 central daylight time, a tailwheel-equipped Cessna 140 airplane, N73000, impacted terrain in a remote rolling prairie on the Rosebud Indian Reservation (RIR) near Lakeview, South Dakota. The student pilot and the passenger both sustained fatal injuries. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The airplane was registered to and operated by the student pilot under the provision of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 as a visual flight rules personal flight. Day visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident, and no flight plan was filed. The flight originated from the student pilot's private airstrip near Lakeview.

According to first responders who spoke with family members, the purpose of the flight was for the student pilot and his son to fly around the local area for aerial observation of various large water towers stationed on farms on the RIR. The student pilot would fly the airplane low, over the water towers, and look down into the water towers to determine the water level. He would then report the water level back to the farmers.

The student pilot's airstrip, which was about 65 ft wide and 1,850 long, consisted of grass and dirt. The airstrip was about 5.5 miles southwest of Lakeview on private property. The airstrip was oriented about 350° and about 170°, runway 35-17 respectively.

After not hearing from the student pilot and his son for several hours, concerned family members contacted first responders. The wreckage was discovered about 0800 by first responders on September 9, 2019. The accident site, located on private property, was about 825 ft to the northwest of the airstrip threshold for landing on runway 17.

The NTSB investigator-in-charge and an air safety investigator from Textron Aviation (the type certificate holder for the Cessna 140) responded to the accident site on September 10, 2019. The investigative team members documented the accident site and the wreckage. The airplane came to rest on a heading of 24° and at an elevation of 2,910 ft above mean sea level. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wing structures, the fuselage, and the empennage as shown below in figure 1 and figure 2. All components of the airframe and the engine were located at the accident site. The two wing fuel tanks were breached from the accident sequence and the onboard fuel level at the time of the impact was undetermined.

Figure 1 – View of the wreckage looking to the south. The pilot's private airstrip is in the upper right corner of the photograph near the trees.

Figure 2 – View of the wreckage looking to the north.

An examination revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe and engine. A review of the airplane's maintenance records revealed no evidence of any uncorrected mechanical discrepancies with the airframe and engine. The wreckage was recovered from the accident site by family members on September 11, 2019.

While the airplane was conducting a low-level aerial observation flight, the airplane was not equipped with a stall warning system or angle of attack indicator system, nor was it required to be.

A review of the Federal Aviation Administration electronic airmen registry for the student pilot, revealed that he held a student pilot certificate. The limitation listed on the student pilot certificate states, "carrying passengers is prohibited." 14 CFR Part 61.89 discusses the limitations for student pilots and states that a student pilot may not act as a pilot in command of an aircraft that is carrying a passenger.

The two-seat capacity airplane, serial number 10205, was manufactured in 1946. The airplane was equipped with a Continental Motors C-85-12 engine, serial number 23455-6-12. 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna
Registration: N73000
Model/Series: 140 Undesignated
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: No
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KVTN, 2590 ft msl
Observation Time: 0052 UTC
Distance from Accident Site: 15 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 16°C / 11°C
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 6 knots / , 50°
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 2200 ft agl
Visibility:  10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.98 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Lakeview, SD (None)
Destination: Lakeview, SD (None)

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:1 Fatal 
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude: 43.039444, -100.805556 (est)

Those who may have information that might be relevant to the National Transportation Safety Board investigation may contact them by email eyewitnessreport@ntsb.gov, and any friends and family who want to contact investigators about the accident should email assistance@ntsb.gov. 

Michael J. Hodges 
Investigator In Charge (IIC)
National Transportation Safety Board


Clint James VanderWey


Jedediah, “Jed”, Nathaniel VanderWey, 16, passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2019. His last moments were spent with his father flying. Jed was born August 22, 2019 in Valentine, Nebraska to Clint and Jennifer VanderWey.

Jed attended Zion Lutheran School through seventh grade and then went to Valentine Community Schools. He was a sophomore at Valentine High School. Jed participated in wrestling and excelled in cross-country and track.

This summer, Jed was employed by Danielski Harvesting. He worked his way from Oklahoma to Nebraska, and enjoyed a summer of “freedom”.

Hobbies included motor cross, spending time with friends, hiking, climbing, snowboarding, wakeboarding, singing, and fishing. Jed also enjoyed driving fast with Grandma Bonnie, hunting with Grandpa Jack, talking with his mom, hanging out with his sister, and flying with his dad. Jed loved dogs and rock music from the 70s. He was extremely patriotic. Adventure was important; more so than his homework.
Jed aspired to followed in his father’s footsteps and become a farmer.

Jed was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and attended Lakeview Christian Reformed Church.

Survivors include mother Jennifer VanderWey; sister Shyla Stearns; Grandparents Jack and Bonnie VanderWey, Sherri Britton, Wayne and Dona Rundback; uncles Jason VanderWey, Justin Loeffler, Cody Rundback; Aunt Kelly Loeffler: cousins Nigel and Shaun VanderWey, Isabelle and Hayden Loeffler, Roper and Stetson Rundback; Great Grandparents Joy Steel and Carl Rundback.

Father, Clint, passed away with Jed.

Preceded in death by brother James VanderWey, great grandparents Lloyd and Marjorie Tryon, Urban and Gladys VanderWey, Wes Steel, Barbara Rundback and Jo Gaites.

A memorial has been established to the Valentine Badger Booster Club.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday September 16, 2019 at the Valentine United Methodist Church.

https://www.holmesfh.com



Clint James VanderWey, 39, passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2019. His last moments were spent flying his airplane with his son. Clint was born October 12, 1979 in Valentine, Nebraska to Jack and Bonnie VanderWey.

Clint attended Lakeview Elementary School, and in 1998, he graduated from Cody –Kilgore Unified Schools. Clint earned an associate degree in Business Administration in May 2000.

Clint starting working at the age of 10 in the hay field. At 14, he worked two summers on the Spike Box Ranch building buffalo fence. At the age of 16, Clint began working for Danielski Farms until 2009, when he began manufacturing his inventions. He continued to work with Danielskis’ until his last days.

In 2007, Clint and Justin Loeffler, started their business L&V Innovations. Together, they invented, the Pivot Rx. In 2009, Clint built a prototype for the Pivot Flusher, which is still a success today.

On November 27, 1999, Clint married his best friend and soul mate, Jennifer Rundback. With this matrimony, Clint gained his daughter, Shyla. On October 28, 2001, Jenny and Clint welcomed the birth of their first son, James Dylan VanderWey. Sadly, on February 14, 2002, James passed away. On August 22, 2003, Clint and Jenny were blessed with the birth of their second son, Jedediah Nathaniel VanderWey.

Clint lived life fully. He liked hunting and fishing with his father as a child. His grandpa, Urban, taught him the family passion of flying, which Clint passed on to his son. Clint enjoyed wakeboarding, water skiing, scuba diving, and boating. He was practically born in the water. Other hobbies included bowling, organic farming, and golfing with his wife. He loved experimenting and creating. His latest interest was perfecting chili rellenos. Clint was a life-long learner, teaching himself through text books and the internet how to do everything he took an interest in.

Clint was a caring man who patiently and kindly taught his children and other youth the things he loved. For the past two summers, he mentored Jeremiah Smith in farming.

Clint was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and attended Lakeview Christian Reformed Church.

Surviors include Jenny VanderWey (wife); Shyla Stearns (daughter); Jack and Bonnie VanderWey (parents); Jason VanderWey (brother); Sherri Britton (mother-in-law); Wayne (father-in-law) and Dona Rundback; Kelly (sister-in-law) and Justin Loeffler; Cody Rundback (brother-in-law); nephews Nigel and Shaun VanderWey, Hayden Loeffler, Roper and Stetson Rundback, and niece Isabelle Loeffler.

Son, Jedediah, passed away with Clint.

Preceded in death by son James VanderWey, grandparents Lloyd and Marjorie Tryon, Urban and Gladys VanderWey.

A memorial has been established to the Cody-Kilgore Ag Program.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday September 16, 2019 at the Valentine United Methodist Church.

https://www.holmesfh.com

Late Sunday night of September 8th, Todd County Search and Rescue were called in to the rural Lakeview area with the report of a missing son and father. 

Clint VanderWey and his son, Jed, left the farm around 6:00 p.m. in Clint’s Cessna 140 to check pivots. The last time family heard from the father and son was around 8:00 p.m., close to sundown. Now a worried family was forced to call for help, said a family spokesman.

Todd County Search and Rescue arrived in the area around 10:00 p.m., but due to the weather and lack of sunlight, a search and rescue plane could not get off the ground to look for Clint and Jed. A foot and vehicle search continued. The Federal Aviation Administration was called in as well.

September 9, early Monday morning, the Search and Rescue, Todd County Sheriff’s Department, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Emergency Preparedness Program, Rosebud Volunteer Fire Department, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement, Game Fish and Parks, family and neighbors continued the search. 

Clint and Jed VanderWey were found not too far from their family farm, with two confirmed fatalities. Clint’s Cessna 140 plane went down less than a football field away from the farm. According to Mike Hodges with the National Transportation Safety Board out of Denver, Colo., who is the lead agency in what will be an ongoing investigation, the reason the plane crashed is unknown at this time. 

National Transportation Safety Board, Federal Aviation Administration and plane manufacturer Textron Aviation are working hand in hand with the Todd County Sheriff on site to assess the situation and investigate the plane crash thoroughly. 

A preliminary report will be published on the National Transportation Safety Board’s website within seven days; however, with these cases it takes one to two years for a final report. All three agencies investigate a variety of things when a plane goes down: the maintenance of the aircraft, the pilot’s training, weather conditions and Air traffic Control Services.

Clint VanderWey was born and raised in the Lakeview, S.D., area, just 15 miles southeast of St. Francis. He and his wife were local farmers who owned Lakeview Irrigation as well as L & V Innovations. 

Jed VanderWey, a sophomore at Valentine High School, was a cross country and track star. Jed is a young man who will be greatly missed by his peers and community.

Updated information: Visitation will be held Sunday, September 15, 2019, 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., at Holmes Funeral Home, Valentine, Neb.

Funeral services will be held Monday, September 16, 2:00 p.m., at the United Methodist Church, Valentine.

In lieu of plants and flowers, the family has requested memorials be sent in care of the family for the Cody/Kigore School Shop class.

Arrangements by Holmes Funeral Home in Valentine, Nebraska.

Original article ➤ https://bennettcountyboostersd.com

Jedediah Nathaniel VanderWey 

CROOKSTON, Nebraska (KNOP) - A father and son killed were killed in plane crash north of Valentine in South Dakota on Sunday, September 8th.

Officials say they do not have a cause of the crash yet, and they do not know exactly when the Cessna 140 went down in the rolling prairie between St. Francis, South Dakota and North of Crookston, Nebraska.

39-year old Clint and his son, 16-year old Jed Vanderwey of north of Crookston died in the crash. The National Transportation Safety Board is looking for answers. 

Investigator Mike Hodges saying that preliminary findings will be posted in 5-7 days on the NTSB website, but it will take 1-3 years before a final report can be made.

The Vanderway family farms near the border of South Dakota and Nebraska.

Wayne Rundback was Clint Vanderwey's father-in-law and Jed's grandfather.

Rundback says Clint Vanderwey would fly to monitor his irrigation service.

Rundback says the two left in the plane Sunday evening, and a search-and-rescue mission began around 10 p.m.

Jed VanderWey had just started school as a sophomore. 

KVSH Radio reports Valentine Community School made counselors available.

Funeral services will be held Monday at United Methodist Church in Valentine.

Original article can be found here ➤ https://www.knopnews2.com