Sunday, February 02, 2020

Loss of Engine Power (Total): Piper PA-28-181 Archer II, N8078X; accident occurred October 10, 2019 near Dayton Wright Brothers Airport (KMGY), Montgomery County, Ohio



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

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

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

https://registry.faa.gov/N8078X

Location: Dayton, OH
Accident Number: GAA20CA017
Date & Time: 10/10/2019, 1600 EDT
Registration: N8078X
Aircraft: Piper PA28
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of engine power (total)
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Instructional

Analysis 

The private pilot reported that she was working toward a commercial certificate with a safety pilot onboard. During the final approach, the airplane's altitude was low, and she added power by moving the throttle but "nothing happened." The safety pilot took the controls and made a forced landing on a highway. During the landing, the airplane struck a vehicle. Both pilots reported that they were not sure why the engine lost power. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing spar. The Federal Aviation Administration inspector who conducted a postaccident examination of the airplane reported that the fuel tank selector was positioned to the left tank. The fuel pump and carburetor float bowl each had less than an ounce of fuel. The left wing tank did not contain any usable fuel, and no sign of fuel was found on the ground postimpact. The right tank contained about 12 gallons of fuel. 

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in fuel starvation, a total loss of engine power, and an off-airport landing, during which the airplane struck a vehicle. 

Findings

Aircraft
Fuel - Fluid management (Cause)

Personnel issues
Use of equip/system - Pilot (Cause)

Environmental issues
Ground vehicle - Effect on operation (Cause)

Factual Information

History of Flight

Enroute
Miscellaneous/other
Fuel starvation
Loss of engine power (total) (Defining event)
Off-field or emergency landing
Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 27, Female
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 2 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 02/14/2018
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 09/05/2019
Flight Time:   (Estimated) 158 hours (Total, all aircraft), 158 hours (Total, this make and model), 69 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 33 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 14 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 2 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Flight Instructor Information

Certificate: Flight Instructor; Commercial
Age: 26, Female
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Right
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane Single-engine
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 1 None
Last FAA Medical Exam: 12/01/2019
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 
Flight Time:

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper
Registration: N8078X
Model/Series: PA28 181
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1979
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 28-8090075
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection:
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2550 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time:
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT:
Engine Model/Series: O-360
Registered Owner: Aviation Sales Inc
Rated Power: 180 hp
Operator: Aviation Sales Inc
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Pilot School (141)

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light:Day 
Observation Facility, Elevation: KMGY, 962 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 2153 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 349°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 4 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:
Wind Direction: 160°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:
Altimeter Setting: 30.07 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 26°C / 12°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Coldwater, MI (OBE)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: IFR
Destination: Dayton, OH (MGY)
Type of Clearance: IFR
Departure Time: 1430 CDT
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: Dayton-Wright Brothers (MGY)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 956 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 20
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5000 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full Stop; Straight-in

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None
Latitude, Longitude:  39.588889, -84.224722 (est)

Loss of Control on Ground: Aeronca 7AC, N2343E; accident occurred October 10, 2019 at Greene County Airport (KWAY), Waynesburg, Pennsylvania




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

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


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


https://registry.faa.gov/N2343E


Location: Waynesburg, PA

Accident Number: GAA20CA009
Date & Time: 10/10/2019, 0845 EDT
Registration: N2343E
Aircraft: Aeronca 7AC
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Instructional 

Analysis 

The flight instructor reported that, with the student pilot on the controls, during the landing roll, the student's right foot slipped off the right pedal and got stuck between the right pedal and fuselage frame. The airplane veered right, and the instructor corrected with left pedal, but the airplane continued right, exited the runway, and struck a ditch. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The student 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 student pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll due to his foot slipping off the right pedal and becoming stuck between the pedal and fuselage frame, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with a ditch.

Findings

Aircraft
Directional control - Not attained/maintained (Cause)
Rudder control system - Not specified (Cause)

Personnel issues
Aircraft control - Student pilot (Cause)

Environmental issues
Sloped/uneven terrain - Effect on operation (Cause)

Factual Information

History of Flight

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

Student Pilot Information

Certificate: Student
Age: 81, Male
Airplane Rating(s): None
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s):None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Sport Pilot
Last FAA Medical Exam:
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 33 hours (Total, all aircraft), 33 hours (Total, this make and model), 4.5 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft) 

Flight Instructor Information

Certificate: Flight Instructor; Commercial
Age: 70, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Rear
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Balloon
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane Single-engine
Toxicology Performed:No
Medical Certification: Class 2 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 12/18/2018
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 03/18/2018
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 2210 hours (Total, all aircraft), 150 hours (Total, this make and model), 2113 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 13.2 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 5.4 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Aeronca
Registration: N2343E
Model/Series: 7AC No Series
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture:
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 7AC5921
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection:  Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1220 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time:
Engine Manufacturer: Continental
ELT: Installed
Engine Model/Series: A-65-8
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 65 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: KAFJ, 1185 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 16 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1356 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 333°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 3 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 160°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.31 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 22°C / 17°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Waynesburg, PA (WAY)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Waynesburg, PA (WAY)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 0830 EDT
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: Greene County (WAY)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 1068 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 27
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 3500 ft / 75 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full Stop; Traffic Pattern

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None
Latitude, Longitude: 39.901111, -80.130556 (est)

Zenith CH-701 STOL, N701WJ: Accident occurred November 30, 2019 at Byron Airport (C83), Contra Costa County, California

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

Additional Participating Entity:

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Oakland, California

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


https://registry.faa.gov/N701WJ


Location: Byron, CA
Accident Number: WPR20LA035
Date & Time: 11/29/2019, 1545 PST
Registration: N701WJ
Aircraft: ZENITH STOL CH701
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Flight Test 

On November 29, 2019, about 1545 Pacific standard time, an experimental Zenith CH-701 STOL, N701WJ, experienced a partial loss of engine power after takeoff from the Byron Airport, Byron, California. The pilot, who was the registered owner, was operating the airplane under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The private pilot, the sole occupant, was uninjured; the airplane sustained substantial damage to the wing struts. The personal local flight was departing from Byron. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed.

The pilot stated that he had recently fabricated and installed a cowling for the airplane. After completing an uneventful high-speed taxi test run, he decided to depart and remain in the pattern. The pilot configured the airplane for takeoff on runway 23 and applied full-power. He turned onto the crosswind leg of the traffic pattern and felt a abnormal vibration accompanied with a slight loss in engine rpm. He continued onto the downwind leg and the airplane was about 500 ft above ground level (agl) when he was midfield. The airplane started to lose altitude and he observed the water temperature gauge indicating 250° F; maximum operating temperature was 220° F.

The pilot further stated that the airplane continued to descended to 100 ft agl, he reached the threshold of runway 23 and made a left turn in an attempt to land on runway 30. While trying to align with the runway, the wind pushed the airplane onto the grass. The airplane touched down hard and nosed over, coming to rest inverted. 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: ZENITH
Registration: N701WJ
Model/Series: STOL CH701
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: Yes
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: KSCK, 27 ft msl
Observation Time: 1555 PST
Distance from Accident Site: 19 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 11°C / 3°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 6000 ft agl
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 4 knots / , 140°
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 7500 ft agl
Visibility:  10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.89 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Byron, CA (C83)
Destination: Byron, CA (C83)

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: 37.830278, -121.626111 (est)

Hard Landing: Piper PA-34-200, N15412; accident occurred November 25, 2019 at Mount Pleasant Regional Airport (KOSA), Titus County, Texas











Aviation Accident Factual 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; Irving, Texas

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Mount Pleasant, Texas 
Accident Number: CEN20TA025
Date & Time: November 25, 2019, 16:10 Local 
Registration: N15412
Aircraft: Piper PA34
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Hard landing
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

Factual Information

On November 25, 2019, about 1610 central standard time, a Piper PA34-200 airplane, N15412, landed hard on the nose landing gear at Mount Pleasant Regional Airport, (OSA), Mount Pleasant, Texas. The flight instructor and pilot under instruction were not injured and the airplane sustained substantial damage. The airplane was registered to and operated by US Aviation Group LLC, under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as an instructional flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident and no flight plan had been filed. The cross-country flight originated from Denton Enterprise Airport (DTO), Denton, Texas, about 1510.

A company mechanic stated that before the accident flight he was called out to the airplane for maintenance and when he arrived, he noticed the nose gear strut was extended too far. He released some nitrogen pressure from the strut and lowered it to 2.8 inches of extension, which was within proper tolerance.

According to the flight instructor (CFI), during the preflight inspection the nose gear strut appeared to be extended more than normal so they called a company mechanic to the assess the issue. He stated that the mechanic released pressure in the nose strut which resulted in the strut lowering to a normal position. The CFI stated that during the flight the airplane and landing gear were operating normally.

The pilot receiving multi-engine instruction was in the left seat and flew the accident approach and landing. Before landing the pilot stated that he confirmed the landing gear were down and locked. The CFI stated that during the landing the airplane touched down on the runway with the main landing gear first and then the nose gear touched down and felt like it had a flat tire. The airplane bounced, during which the CFI noticed a high pitch attitude and assumed control of the airplane, then landed again. During this sequence the nose gear strut came through the windscreen between the two pilots.

The CFI stated that he had accumulated 15 flight hours in the accident airplane make and model. He added that the accident flight was his first flight in the accident airplane.

The pilot receiving instruction stated that during the landing the main gear touched first and then the nose gear, then bounced into the air about 5 ft. He stated that the CFI took control of the airplane after the bounce. The pilot receiving instruction had flown the accident airplane for a total of 3 flights and 3.9 hours not including the accident flight. During the flight lesson before the accident flight, he completed 3 to 4 good landings with no bounces.

One witness, who was an OSA airport employee, observed the approach and landing. He stated that the airplane landed on the nose wheel first while the main landing gear were still about one foot off the runway. The airplane bounced into the air then landed hard on the nose wheel again. The airplane slid on the runway and came to rest upright about 1,000 ft later.

Another witness, who is a pilot and has his airplane hangared at OSA, observed the approach and landing. He stated that the airplane was very fast on final approach and landed fairly flat on the first landing attempt. The airplane bounced into the air about 10 to 15 ft then landed on the nose gear. The airplane bounced a final time and came down directly on the nose gear. The airplane hit the runway hard and the nose strut collapsed upward into the fuselage (Figure 1).

A postaccident examination of the damage to the nose landing gear revealed that the lower truss of the nose gear mounting structure was fractured. The nose gear mount assembly separated from the airframe but remained attached to the windscreen trim strip. The mount was displaced upward and punctured through the top of the fuselage and fractured the windscreen. The nose landing gear strut was intact and did not show signs of damage or failure.

Flight instructor Information

Certificate: Commercial; Flight instructor
Age: 27,Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Right
Other Aircraft Rating(s):
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): 
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane multi-engine; Airplane single-engine
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 1 Without waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: August 17, 2017
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: April 1, 2019
Flight Time: 485 hours (Total, all aircraft), 15 hours (Total, this make and model), 345 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 76 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 28 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 3 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 18,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: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): None 
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 1 With waivers/limitations 
Last FAA Medical Exam: February 21, 2019
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: (Estimated) 210 hours (Total, all aircraft), 4 hours (Total, this make and model) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper 
Registration: N15412
Model/Series: PA34 200 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1972 
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal 
Serial Number: 34-7350060
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: November 12, 2019 Annual Certified 
Max Gross Wt.: 3999 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 2 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 11482.7 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: Installed, not activated 
Engine Model/Series: IO360
Registered Owner:
Rated Power:
Operator:
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Pilot school (141)

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KOSA,363 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time:
Direction from Accident Site: 10°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear 
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting:
Temperature/Dew Point:
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Denton, TX (DTO)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Mount Pleasant, TX (OSA)
Type of Clearance: VFR
Departure Time: 13:10 Local 
Type of Airspace: Class E

Airport Information

Airport: Mount Pleasant Rgnl OSA 
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 364 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 17 IFR
Approach: None 
Runway Length/Width: 6004 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Traffic pattern

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 2 None 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None 
Latitude, Longitude: 33.094165,-94.961387(est)

Location: Mount Pleasant, TX
Accident Number: CEN20TA025
Date & Time: 11/25/2019, 1610 CST
Registration: N15412
Aircraft: Piper PA34
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Instructional 

On November 25, 2019, about 1610, a Piper PA34-200 airplane, N15412, landed hard on the nose landing gear at Mount Pleasant Regional Airport, (OSA), Mount Pleasant, Texas. The flight instructor and pilot under instruction were not injured and the airplane sustained substantial damage. The airplane was registered to and operated by US Aviation Group LLC, under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as an instructional flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident and no flight plan had been filed. The cross-country flight originated from Denton Enterprise Airport (DTO), Denton, Texas, about 1510.

A company mechanic stated that before the accident flight he was called out to the airplane for maintenance and when he arrived, he noticed the nose gear strut was extended too far. He released some nitrogen pressure from the strut and lowered it to 2.8 inches of extension, which was within proper tolerance.

According to the flight instructor (CFI), during the preflight inspection the nose gear strut appeared to be extended more than normal so they called a company mechanic to the asses the issue. He stated that the mechanic released pressure in the nose strut which resulted in the strut lowering to a normal position. The pilot stated that during the flight the airplane and landing gear were operating normally. The pilot receiving instruction was in the left seat and was manipulating the flight controls and the CFI was in the right seat. Before landing the pilot stated that he confirmed the landing gear were down and locked. The CFI stated that during the landing the airplane touched down on the runway with the main landing gear first and then the nose gear touched down and felt like it had a flat tire. The airplane bounced and landed again and the nose gear strut came through the windscreen between the two pilots. He added that it was an extremely sudden and very unexpected movement from the nose gear.

The CFI stated that he had accumulated 15 flight hours in the accident airplane make and model. He added that the accident flight was his first flight in the accident airplane.

The pilot receiving instruction stated that during the landing the main landing gear touched first and then the nose gear; the airplane bounced into the air about 5 ft. He stated that the CFI took control of the airplane after the bounce. The pilot receiving instruction had flown the accident airplane for a total of 3 flights and 3.9 hours, not including the accident flight. One lesson before the accident flight he had completed 3 to 4 good landings with no bounces.

One witness, who was an OSA airport employee, observed the approach and landing. He stated that the airplane landed on the nose wheel first while the main landing gear were still about one foot off the runway. The airplane bounced into the air then landed hard on the nose wheel again. The airplane slid on the runway and came to rest upright about 1,000 ft later.

Another witness, who is a pilot and has his airplane hangared at OSA, observed the approach and landing. He stated that the airplane was very fast on final approach and landed fairly flat on the first landing attempt. The airplane bounced into the air about 10 to 15 ft then landed on the nose landing gear. The airplane bounced a final time and came down directly on the nose landing gear. The airplane hit the runway hard and the nose strut collapsed into the firewall and windscreen. 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper
Registration: N15412
Model/Series: PA34 200
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: No
Operator: US Aviation Group LLC
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Pilot School (141)

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KOSA, 363 ft msl
Observation Time:
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point:
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: Calm / ,
Lowest Ceiling:
Visibility:  10 Miles
Altimeter Setting:
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Denton, TX (DTO)
Destination: Mount Pleasant, TX (OSA)

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None
Latitude, Longitude: 33.094167, -94.961389 (est)

Cessna 150H, N22931: Accident occurred November 24, 2019 near Shreveport Downtown Airport (KDTN), Caddo Parish, Louisiana

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

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

https://registry.faa.gov/N22931 

Location: Shreveport, LA
Accident Number: CEN20LA046
Date & Time: 11/24/2019, 1050 CST
Registration: N22931
Aircraft: Cessna 150
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Instructional

On November 24, 2019, about 1050 central daylight time, a Cessna 150H airplane, N22931, impacted water following a loss of engine power near Shreveport, Louisiana. The flight instructor and student pilot were not injured, and the airplane was substantially damaged. The airplane was registered to and operated by a private individual under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a instructional flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local flight which was in the traffic pattern at Shreveport Downtown Airport (DTN), Shreveport, Louisiana.

According to information provided by the flight instructor, while conducting touch and go landings at DTN and on the crosswind leg, the engine "bumped" twice, and the propeller stopped. The instructor verified carburetor heat, throttle, and mixture controls. The pilot energized the starter and the propeller moved; however, it did not restore engine power. They performed a forced landing to water.

The airplane was retained for further examination. 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna
Registration: N22931
Model/Series: 150 H
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: KSHV, 259 ft msl
Observation Time: 1053 CST
Distance from Accident Site: 1 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 12°C / 5°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 7 knots / , 260°
Lowest Ceiling:
Visibility:  
Altimeter Setting: 30.06 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Shreveport, LA (DTN)
Destination: Shreveport, LA (DTN)

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None
Latitude, Longitude: 32.435278, -93.816111 (est)

Beech V35A Bonanza, N7956M: Accident occurred November 23, 2019 at Caldwell Industrial Airport (KEUL), Canyon County, Idaho

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

Additional Participating Entity:

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Boise, Idaho

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


https://registry.faa.gov/N7956M


Location: Caldwell, ID

Accident Number: WPR20LA033
Date & Time: 11/23/2019, 1430 MST
Registration: N7956M
Aircraft: Beech 35
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

On November 23, 2019, at 1430 mountain standard time, a Beechcraft V-35A-TC airplane, N7956M, landed hard following a loss of engine power after takeoff from Caldwell Industrial Airport (EUL), Caldwell, Idaho. The airline transport pilot and passenger were not injured. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local area flight and no flight plan had been filed.

According to the pilot, this was the first flight after the annual inspection had been performed. The takeoff was uneventful and shortly after liftoff, about 400 ft above ground level (agl), the engine began to run rough with a noticeable power loss. The pilot reported smoke in the cockpit, which appeared to be coming from the lower left firewall area. The engine continued to lose power and he selected the right main fuel tank; however, there was no change and the engine continued to lose power until it quit.

The pilot made the decision to land on the airport and set up for landing. About 150 ft agl, the passenger lowered the landing gear. While in the base turn, the pilot realized that the airplane was not going to line up with the runway. He leveled the wings, and as the airplane neared the ground, it stalled and landed hard. The airplane bounced a couple of times before the right-wing tip struck the runway followed by the left wing impacting the VASI/PAPI light structure. The airplane came to rest upright.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors examined the airplane and reported that the wastegate exhaust elbow separated from the waste gate and the tailpipe which caused exhaust gas to melt the magneto P-leads, which led to a shut down of the engine. The airplane was moved to a secure hangar for further examination. 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Beech
Registration: N7956M
Model/Series: 35 V35A
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: KEUL, 2429 ft msl
Observation Time: 1456 MST
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 9°C / -4°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 3 knots / , 130°
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility:  10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 30.33 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Caldwell, ID (EUL)
Destination: Caldwell, ID (EUL) 

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: 43.641944, -116.635833 (est)

Loss of Control in Flight: Czech Aircraft SportCruiser, N595SC; accident occurred November 23, 2019 at Lamar Municipal Airport (KLAA), Prowers County, Colorado

View of the left side canopy latch. 
Federal Aviation Administration

View of the of the right side canopy handle and catch and lever.
Federal Aviation Administration

View of damage to the inboard right wing.
Federal Aviation Administration

 
View of damage to the inboard right wing. 
Federal Aviation Administration


Additional Participating Entity:

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Denver, Colorado

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


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


https://registry.faa.gov/N595SC


Location: Lamar, CO
Accident Number: GAA20CA092
Date & Time: 11/23/2019, 1630 MST
Registration: N595SC
Aircraft: Czech Aircraft Works Spol Sro Sportscruiser
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

The pilot reported that, during approach the canopy opened, and he was distracted "because it was like a tornado in the plane." He attempted to hold the canopy closed and in the confusion the airplane impacted the ground short of the runway.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.

According to FAA Aviation Safety Inspectors that examined the airplane after the accident, no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies were found with the canopy handle, latch, or the catch. 

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 76, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Sport Pilot With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 12/01/2000
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 08/19/2019
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 542 hours (Total, all aircraft), 29 hours (Total, this make and model), 460 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 24 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 17 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Czech Aircraft Works Spol Sro
Registration: N595SC
Model/Series: Sportscruiser
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2006
Amateur Built:No 
Airworthiness Certificate: Experimental Light Sport
Serial Number: 06SC002
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 01/19/2019, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1320 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 920 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Rotax
ELT: C91A installed, activated, aided in locating accident
Engine Model/Series: 912S
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 97 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: KLAA, 3704 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time:
Direction from Accident Site: 60°
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling:
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 8 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:
Wind Direction: 260°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:
Altimeter Setting:
Temperature/Dew Point:
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Alamosa, CO (ALS)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Lamar, CO (LAA)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1400 MST
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: Lamar Muni (LAA)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 3705 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 26
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5001 ft / 60 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: 38.069722, -102.688611 (est)

Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, N530AK: Accidents occurred February 10, 2020 and November 23, 2019 at Kerrville Municipal Airport (KERV), Texas -and- Accident occurred May 31, 2019 at Sparta Community Airport - Hunter Field (KSAR), Randolph County, Illinois









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

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

https://registry.faa.gov/N530AK

Location: Kerrville, TX
Accident Number: CEN20CA033
Date & Time: 11/23/2019, 1100 CST
Registration:N530AK 
Aircraft: PIPER PA18
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

The private pilot was on a cross-country flight with one passenger. He stated that based on the wind reported by his destination airport's Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS), he decided to make a conventional, full-stall, 3-point landing. He said he crossed mid-field and entered a left downwind for runway 30. The turn to base and final were normal. When the airplane was about a foot off the runway at stall speed, "an unexpected" wind gust pushed the airplane to the left. The left main landing gear contacted the runway, and the airplane drifted to the right. The left shock absorber broke, and the airplane swerved to the right. The tailwheel unlocked and the airplane ground looped. Damage included a bent left wing and left main landing gear. The pilot did not indicate the wind direction but said it was at 7 knots. AWOS reported that the wind was calm. The pilot did not indicate that there were any mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to the accident. He noted that the destination airport "has a reputation for gusty wind conditions . . . the gust caught me in a landing configuration where I was unable to maintain directional control at touchdown." The pilot stated that once the tailwheel turns about 15 to 20 degrees, it unlocks automatically and the tailwheel swivels. When the airplane began its turn and reached the point where the tailwheel unlocked, there is no tailwheel steering. 

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 62, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present:
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 12/13/2018
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 03/24/2019
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 2160 hours (Total, all aircraft), 53 hours (Total, this make and model), 1750 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 108 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 75 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 1 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: PIPER
Registration: N530AK
Model/Series:PA18 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture:
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 18-4385
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 05/30/2019, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2000 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 4017 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: C91 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: O-360
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 180 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: ERV, 1817 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site:
Observation Time: 1050 CST
Direction from Accident Site:
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling:
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 7 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:
Wind Direction:
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:
Altimeter Setting: 30.27 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 18°C / 4°C
Precipitation and Obscuration:
Departure Point: Conroe, TX (CXO)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Kerrville, TX (ERV)
Type of Clearance: VFR
Departure Time: 0900 CST
Type of Airspace: Class E

Airport Information

Airport: Kerrville Municipal (ERV)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation:1617 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 30
IFR Approach:None 
Runway Length/Width: 6004 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full Stop

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None
Latitude, Longitude: 29.976667, -99.085556 (est)

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; San Antonio, Texas 

February 10, 2020:  Aircraft experienced a gust of wind on landing and lost control. 

Date: 10-FEB-20
Time: 20:50:00Z
Regis#: N530AK
Aircraft Make: PIPER
Aircraft Model: PA18
Event Type: ACCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: SUBSTANTIAL
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: KERRVILLE
State: TEXAS

May 31, 2019
View of damage to the right wing.
Federal Aviation Administration


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

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


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

Location: Sparta, IL
Accident Number: GAA19CA298
Date & Time: 05/31/2019, 1030 CDT
Registration: N530AK
Aircraft: Piper PA18
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

The pilot in the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that the airplane was equipped with 26-inch tundra tires, and that he performed a landing on the asphalt runway. The airplane touched down and the airplane veered to the right. The pilot applied left rudder and left brake but overcorrected the airplane's direction to the left. Subsequently, the airplane ground-looped to the left, and the right main landing gear collapsed, and the right wing struck the ground.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.

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

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 62, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 12/13/2018
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 03/24/2019
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 2034 hours (Total, all aircraft), 10 hours (Total, this make and model), 1919 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 95 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 27 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 3 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper
Registration: N530AK
Model/Series: PA18 150
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1956
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 18-4385
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 05/30/2019, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1750 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 3187 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Amateur/Experimental
ELT: C91 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: Unknown
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 180 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KSAR, 538 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1535 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 290°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 3 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:
Wind Direction: 300°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:
Altimeter Setting: 29.95 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 23°C / 16°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Sparta, IL (SAR)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Sparta, IL (SAR)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 0715 CDT
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: Sparta Community-Hunter Field (SAR)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 537 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 36
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 4002 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: 38.148889, -89.698611 (est)