Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Loss of Engine Power (Total): Douglas TA-4K Skyhawk, N140EM; accident occurred August 18, 2016 near Nellis Air Force Base (LSV), Las Vegas, Nevada

















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

Additional Participating Entities: 
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Las Vegas, Nevada 
Pratt and Whitney; Hartford, Connecticut
Boeing; St Louis, Missouri 
Draken International Inc; Lakeland, Florida 
USAF Safety Center; Albuquerque, New Mexico

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

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

http://registry.faa.gov/N140EM

Location: Las Vegas, NV
Accident Number: WPR16FA166
Date & Time: 08/18/2016, 0739 PDT
Registration:N140EM 
Aircraft: DOUGLAS TA-4K
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Loss of engine power (total)
Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Public Aircraft

HISTORY OF FLIGHT

On August 18, 2016, about 0739 Pacific daylight time, an experimental Douglas TA-4K, Skyhawk turbo-jet airplane, N140EM, was destroyed when it collided with the ground following a loss of engine power shortly after entering the traffic pattern at Nellis Air Force Base (LSV), Las Vegas, Nevada. The airline transport pilot sustained minor injuries. The airplane was registered to and operated by Draken International Inc., for the U.S. Department of Defense as a public aircraft in support of the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the airport and a military flight plan was filed for the simulated combat training flight. The local flight originated about 0620.

According to the pilot, he was the lead airplane of a flight of two aggressors, returning to LSV after completion of their Weapons School support flight in the Nevada Test and Tactics Range. The flight was uneventful until the formation break-up on initial, in the traffic pattern. The pilot led the formation to the overhead pattern for runway 21R, and shortly after the break to downwind, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot reported hearing a loud "thump," then noticed the engine's rpm decreasing, and heard the engine surging. During this time, the engine did not respond to throttle movements. The pilot at first initiated a turn towards the airport; however, he realized that he was unable to make the runway and consequently turned left towards a field. He selected manual fuel control and thought the engine might respond but the rpm continued to rapidly drop. Once assured that the airplane would impact in the field, the pilot initiated a successful ejection and sustained minor injuries. The airplane subsequently struck terrain and was consumed by fire, about 1 mile north of the approach end of runway 21R.

Witnesses reported observing the airplane on downwind, as being low and descending. Shortly thereafter, they observed the pilot eject and then the airplane descended rapidly towards the ground and upon impact, produced a large fireball outside the base perimeter.

A review of surveillance video shows the airplane flying wings level at a low altitude and descending. A few seconds later, the ejection sequence was initiated and two chutes (one from the unoccupied back seat) were observed deployed. A couple of seconds later, the airplane impacts terrain.

PERSONNEL INFORMATION

The pilot held an airline transport pilot certificate with ratings for airplane single-engine land, multi-engine land, and instrument. He also held ratings for a flight instructor certificate in airplane single-engine and instrument. Additionally, he was type rated in the Boeing 737, and held an experimental airplane authorization for the Douglas Corporation A-4 Skyhawk.

The pilot was issued a first-class airman medical certificate on August 15, 2016, without limitations or waivers. The pilot reported that he had accumulated 8,076 total flight hours, 230 hours in the accident make and model airplane, and had flown 211 hours in the last 3 months. He also had previously flown the General Dynamics (now Lockheed Martin) F-16 Fighting Falcon airplane for the United States Air Force and logged about 5,200 hours in it.

AIRCRAFT INFORMATION

The TA-4K Skyhawk was a swept-wing, two-seat jet airplane powered by a single Pratt & Whitney J52 turbojet engine that was manufactured in 1970 by the Douglas Corporation and later upgraded by Draken International Inc. The airplane was developed for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps during the Vietnam war era.

Maintenance was accomplished by Draken International Inc. A review of the maintenance logbooks revealed that the last continuous airworthy inspection was accomplished on July 29, 2016, at an airframe time of 6,850.2 hours. The engine had a total time of 3,211.5 hours, 428.7 hours since inspection, and 1,826.3 hours since overhaul.

The airplane utilized a single Pratt & Whitney J52 turbojet engine that produced about 9,200 lbs of thrust. The J52 is a continuous flow, gas turbine engine which incorporates a split 12 stage, axial-flow compressor and 2 turbine stages. A 5-stage low-pressure compressor (LPC) is driven by a single-stage low pressure turbine (LPT) front compressor drive turbine rotor and a 7-stage high compressor (HPC) is driven by a single-stage high pressure turbine (HPT) rear compressor drive turbine rotor.

The accident airplane had an engine write-up on May 18, 2016, for a thrust deficiency while performing acrobatic maneuvers. The write-up stated that the engine seemed like it was not producing the correct amount of thrust. Military (MIL) power, also referred to as full-power or 100% power, would only indicate 98% power, with a noticeable humming noise, and the airplane became slow during acrobatics with the normal power settings. As a result, maintenance accomplished an engine run to 75% and all engine parameters checked good. The write-up also stated that maintenance would monitor the engine for any trends at 75% power or greater.

Fuel servicing records indicated that the accident airplane was fully refueled with 916 gallons on the morning of the accident. The fuel truck that serviced the airplane had a fuel sample tested after the accident, and the sample was within established standards. The airplane forms indicated 8,200 pounds of fuel was onboard, prior to the flight. According to the pilot, he confirmed that about 8,000 pounds of fuel was onboard the airplane during preflight. The pilot further stated that during the flight, the formation accomplished about 3 fuel checks in the area. According to the accident pilot's wingman, during the flight, after their area work was complete, a final battle damage assessment check with the lead airplane was accomplished, prior to returning to the LSV. The lead airplane reported 2,300 pounds of fuel and his status as the wingman was 1,800 pounds of fuel. Draken International Inc.'s operations procedures stated that the minimum fuel for the airplane was 800 pounds and emergency fuel was 500 pounds. Additionally, the fuel at initial or the final approach fix was 1,000 pounds.

The aircraft's flight manual lists the following procedures for a Low Altitude Loss of Thrust/Flameout:

Throttle – Check full forward.
Zoom climb.
If below 1,500 above ground level (agl) and 250 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS) - Eject.
Throttle – Retard.
Fuel Control switch – Manual.
- If thrust is not regained immediately, proceed as follows:

RAT (Ram Air Turbine) – Deploy
Throttle - Ignition, then idle. (Monitor EGT for signs of relight).
External Stores – Jettison, if required.
Throttle – Cautiously advance.
Below 5,000 ft agl – Nil engine response, eject.
Above 5,000 ft agl – Airstart. (if time and altitude permit, establish 250 kts glide and commence airstart).
The TA-4K aircraft flight manual stated: ejection is mandatory "when an engine flameout occurs below 1,500 ft agl and 250 kias," except when unusual circumstances clearly dictate otherwise.

METEOROLOGICAL INFORMATION

A review of data from LSV, automated weather observation station revealed that at 0756 conditions were wind calm, visibility 10 statute miles, scattered clouds at 11,000 ft, temperature 30°C, dew point 9°C, and an altimeter setting of 29.91 inches of mercury.

AIRPORT INFORMATION

LSV is a United States Air Force (USAF) owned, towered airport, with a field elevation of 1,869 ft. The airport was equipped with two concrete runways, runway 3L/21R (10,120 ft long by 200 ft wide) and runway 3R/21L (10,051 ft long by 150 ft wide). Airport remarks for the runway 21R, listed a caution for a crane training site north of the departure end of runway 03L, maximum height was 100 ft.

WRECKAGE AND IMPACT INFORMATION

Examination of the accident site by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigator-in-charge (IIC) revealed that the airplane impacted desert terrain at an elevation of about 1,926 ft. All major components of the airplane were contained within the main wreckage site. The airplane impacted the ground at a relatively shallow angle and on a magnetic heading of about 087°. After impact, the airplane continued to slide forward on the ground for about 30 ft and then struck and breached a concrete wall. The airplane continued to slide forward for about another 45 ft before coming to rest on its right side against a berm. A post-crash fire ensured, and the debris was mostly contained from the concrete wall to where the airplane came to rest.

The fuselage sustained substantial damage to most of its right side, from the vertical stabilizer forward to the cockpit area. The left speed brake was extended. The right speed brake was separated but appeared to be fully extended. The cockpit and nose area sustained extensive damage due to impact with the wall and the post-crash fire. The manual flight control release mechanism on both the horizontal stabilizer and aileron hydraulic power pack was found in the manual flight control mode.

The engine was observed to be mostly intact and lying on its right side. The first stage compressor blades near the 6 o'clock position, were fractured and bent rearward, with minimal rotational deflection (bent in the direction opposite rotation). The inlet guide vanes and inlet case exhibited ground impact damage and were buckled and fractured near the 6 o'clock position. The engine-driven generator was separated from the front of the engine and was recovered nearby.

The engine's no. 1 bearing was exposed and observed to be shiny, intact, and undamaged. No apparent damage was noted on the second stage turbine airfoils. All but one of the Pt7 (total pressure) probes were intact. One Pt7 probe was observed to be fractured. All six, Tt7 (referred to as the exhaust gas temperature (EGT) probes), were intact. The burner pressure (combustion pressure) Pb line remained attached but was observed to be fractured just forward of the electrical disconnect junction box, located on the bottom of the engine. The engine's gearbox had separated from it mounting points but was still partially attached to the engine by tubing. The engine's tailpipe was partially separated just aft of the rear engine flange.

The engine was removed from the wreckage and further examination revealed that the left side of the engine was encased in molten metal. The main upper tower shaft was recovered nearby. A Pratt and Whitney investigator began a partial disassembly and examination of the rear portion of the engine, while on site.

A follow up engine and airframe examination was accomplished at the salvage facility of Air Transport, in Phoenix, Arizona by the NTSB IIC. Engine representatives and investigators from the NTSB, Pratt and Whitney, Draken International Inc, and Boeing, were in attendance.

A comprehensive borescope analysis of the engine was accomplished. The front of the engine was accessed, and multiple viewing revealed no foreign object damage (FOD) or blade tip interference. Access through an ignitor port allowed a view of the no. 4 and no. 3 combustion cans and several 1st stage turbine blades and vanes. No anomalies were noted. No damage to the turbine section was observed. A borescope was inserted through the tower shaft cavity towards the engine centerline and no anomalies were observed with the no. 3 bearing. All bearings were unremarkable with no discoloration or surface anomalies observed.

The gearbox assembly exhibited damage consistent with ground impact and had separated from the engine mounts. The gear train was exposed due to large fragments of the housing being separated. Visual examination of the gearbox revealed no damage attributed to operation prior to impact. Housing damage prevented the gear train from being manually rotated. The gearbox was disassembled and examined. The drive shafts and gear teeth of the tach drive, the fuel pump, main bevel, and fuel control gears were all intact. The only anomaly noted was the fracture of the lower tower shaft cup which is part of the main bevel gear assembly. The lower tower shaft cup was separated from the rest of the assembly and about 40% of its engagement teeth were missing. The shaft was also bent about 60°

Several cockpit instruments were removed and shipped to the NTSB's Material laboratory for examination. The instruments had sustained thermal damage and had various levels of damage from impact. No reliable information that was pertinent to the investigation was obtained from the instruments.

The engine parts and accessories were examined further at another examination. Investigators from the NTSB, Pratt and Whitney, USAF, and Draken International Inc. were present. The engine's gearbox lower tower shaft/drive gear assembly and cup and the P2 pressure tube, were removed and examined at the NTSB's Materials Laboratory. Microscopic examination revealed that all separation surfaces were from overstress fractures, consistent with impact damage. No indications of preexisting cracking or corrosion were noted at the fracture areas. The Materials Laboratory also examined the no. 1 and no. 6 bearing, P3 pressure manifold, and the low-pressure spool (N1) shaft, and no anomalies were observed.

No anomalies were noted during the airframe and engine examination that would have precluded normal operation.

The main fuel control (MFC) unit and main fuel pump (MFP) were examined at the Naval Air Station Depot facility in Jacksonville, Florida.

The MFP was unable to be functionally bench tested due to impact damage. Disassembly and examination of the MFP revealed no mechanical anomalies that would have prevented normal operation. The drive gears, bearing sets, and impeller were intact. Normal wear and minor corrosion were observed but were consistent with other similar type MFPs being overhauled at the facility. The fuel filter was contaminated with dirt and debris from the crash. The fuel lines going to the filter were breached and allowed contamination to enter the filter.

The MFC permits the selection of a desired engine thrust while automatically compensating for ambient operating conditions. Further, the MFC accurately governs the engine steady-state speed and controls fuel flow during acceleration and deceleration. The MFC is mounted to the bottom of the engine's accessory gearbox and features a hydromechanical control. Two internal filters protect it from any potential contaminants from the high-pressure fuel discharged from the main fuel pump. There is a relief valve to bypass the filter that protects the metering section. The other filter is self-cleaning.

The MFC consists of two basic operating engine operating systems, the primary control system and a manual backup system. During primary control operation, the MFC metering section regulated fuel to the engine as a function of the throttle requested and ambient conditions.

Manual control of the MFC is used in the event the primary control system malfunction and is engaged by a switch in the cockpit. Once the manual system is engaged, fuel is blocked to the primary throttling valve and directs it to the manual throttle valve. The manual throttle is positioned by the power lever which directly relates to the fuel flow commanded, with no metering function.

In both modes, the first area where the fuel flows to is the transfer valve, where the manual and normal fuel flows take separate paths. The fuel flows continue to the area where their respective and separate system pressure regulator valve is located. Next, the fuel enters their separate throttle valve system area. Both fuel flows then merge back together in the check valve and then flow to the minimum pressure regulating shutoff valve location, before the fuel exits the MFC.

The MFC sustained impact and thermal damage and could not be functionally tested. The MFC housing appeared to be intact except for the fuel outlet port to the fuel flow transmitter was fractured. The MFC's drive spline was able to manually be rotated. In addition, no witness marks were observed on the speed servo that would help determine the MFC's speed setting at the time of impact and the internal filters were clear of contaminants. The only anomaly noted was that an unknown non-metallic material was located inside the MFC's minimum pressure regulating and shutoff valve port and the check valve port; both of which are interconnected and near the exit point of the MFC. The material was removed and sent to the NTSB's Materials laboratory for analysis.

The NTSB laboratory determined that the non-metallic material located in the MFC was that of a nylon 6/6 material. Therefore, the MFC specifications, drawings, and other historical technical data were reviewed to determine the type and amount of non-metallic materials located in the MFC's interior. Locations in the MFC were identified and noted that utilized the nylon 6/6 material for various sealing functions.

Another examination of the MFC was accomplished. During the second examination, all expected non-metallic seals were identified and located in their proper position inside the MFC. All the seals were intact except the one located at manual system pressure regulating valve, which sustained thermal damage. The fuel flow paths between the primary and manual fuel system pressure valves to the throttle valves, and then to the minimum pressure regulating and fuel shutoff valve exit port was examined. No debris or obstructions were observed. No evidence of additional nylon 6/6 material was observed inside the MFC, other than what was originally observed on the first examination. Additionally, a borescope examination was accomplished of the fuel flow paths and revealed no obstructions.

The closest internal source of the nylon 6/6 that was thermally damaged, like the foreign contamination (the non-metallic material discovered during the initial MFC examination), was the manual system pressure regulating valve. The valve's seal had sustained thermal damage, but most of its remnants appeared to be present. The remnants of the seal were collected and weighted at 1.229 grams. An exemplar, new nylon 6/6 seal, used for that valve, was weighted at 1.43 grams. Therefore, the seal remnants were consistent with the seal being in place preimpact. Further, the weight of the foreign contamination located, during the first MFC examination, was 0.833 grams, and would not be consistent with being part of the seal remnants at the manual pressure regulating valve.

The MFC unit was located on the left side of the bottom of the engine. However, during the accident sequence, the engine came to rest on its right side and the MFC was now inverted and located on the top side of the engine. The area of the contamination was therefore, now situated near the highest point of the MFC. Examination of the flow paths from the manual system pressure regulating valve to the area where the contamination was located, would require the valve debris remnants to travel through a couple of valve areas (check valve and minimum pressure regulating shutoff valve), in a vertical and then downward flow, a couple of times.

The engine components downstream of the MFC, that were on the fuel flow path to the engine fuel nozzles, were also examined, to ensure no foreign material was deposited into the MFC during the postimpact fire. The fuel flow transmitter was the first component in the flow after the MFC; no anomalies were noted in its internal portions. Next in the flow path was the fuel-oil cooler. Internal examination revealed no anomalies besides external thermal damage and a small speck of black contamination, observed internally, that did not obstruct flow. The pressurizing and dump valve was next in the flow path and was removed and disassembled. Inside the pressurizing and dump valve, there was a heavy build-up of material located within the strainer assembly that was consistent with the remnants of the fuel dump valve lower valve seat. The lower seat was not located during disassembly. However, since the strainer captured all the valve remnants, there was no material deposited inside the pressuring valve cavity that would potentially restrict fuel flow.

According to Draken International Inc, the airplane's MFC total time was 3,063 hours. It was inspected on a 750-hour interval during a main engine inspection. The MFC time at the last inspection was 2,635.5 hours. It was 427.7 hours since the last inspection and had 322.3 hours remaining until the next inspection. The MFC had maintenance accomplished on it in 1997 and 1998. In 1999, the MFC was rebuilt and has subsequently flown for a total of 425 hours, with 275 of those hours flown by Draken International.

Several other components of the fuel system were examined. The fuel level control valve, fuel boost pump, fuel transfer pump, and fuel shut off valves. None of the components could be tested because of the significant impact and thermal damage sustained, however examination of the components revealed no preimpact anomalies.

MEDICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL INFORMATION

Toxicology testing was not performed on the pilot by the FAA, and the decision to conduct testing was left to be determined by Draken International Inc. under their established guidelines. According to the Draken International Inc, the pilot's results were negative from the testing performed by the USAF.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The canopy, both ejection seats, and parachutes were examined by the NTSB IIC with a life support specialist from Draken International Inc. The ejection sequence appeared to function normally, and no anomalies were observed with the equipment. The investigation was unable to determine the ejection altitude. However, the pilot stated he may have delayed his ejection decision. Further, witnesses reported the ejection occurred just a few seconds prior to the airplanes impact, and the surveillance video confirmed what the witnessed observed.

A review of the ejection seat assembly revealed that all inspections and time change requirements were current, with the exception of the separation rocket motor inspection, which were due on both ejection seats in July 2015. However, an extension of the inspections, was approved by the FAA, with the manufacturer's assessment memorandum.

Draken International Inc. operated the airplane and was a contract air support organization that provided aggressor support, red air, and close air support for the U.S military, Department of Defense, and allied militaries globally. The organization operated the world's largest commercial fleet of tactical ex-military jet airplanes consisting of about 150 tactical fighter jet airplanes. 

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline Transport
Age: 54, 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): Airplane Single-engine; Instrument Airplane
Toxicology Performed: Yes
Medical Certification: Class 1 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 10/17/2015
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 10/17/2015
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 8076 hours (Total, all aircraft), 230 hours (Total, this make and model), 6921 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 211 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 42 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 2 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: DOUGLAS
Registration: N140EM
Model/Series: TA-4K NO SERIES
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture:1970 
Amateur Built:No 
Airworthiness Certificate: Experimental
Serial Number: 157914
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 07/29/2016, Continuous Airworthiness
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 24500 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Turbo Jet
Airframe Total Time: 6850.2 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Pratt and Whitney
ELT: Not installed
Engine Model/Series: J52-P8
Registered Owner: DRAKEN INTERNATIONAL INC
Rated Power: 9200 lbs
Operator: DRAKEN INTERNATIONAL INC
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: LAS, 1869 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 11 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 0756 PDT
Direction from Accident Site: 30°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Scattered / 11000 ft agl
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling:None 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts:Calm / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: / None
Wind Direction:
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 29.91 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 30°C / 9°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Las Vegas, NV (LSV)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: IFR
Destination: Las Vegas, NV (LSV)
Type of Clearance: IFR
Departure Time:0620 PDT 
Type of Airspace: Class D; Military Operation Area

Airport Information

Airport: NELLIS AFB (LSV)
Runway Surface Type: N/A
Airport Elevation: 1869 ft
Runway Surface Condition:
Runway Used: 21R
IFR Approach:None 
Runway Length/Width: 10120 ft / 200 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Traffic Pattern

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: On-Ground
Ground Injuries:N/A 
Aircraft Explosion:None 
Total Injuries: 1 Minor
Latitude, Longitude: 36.235000, -115.033889 (est)

Air Tractor AT-502: Accident occurred February 25, 2020 in Dumas, Desha County, Arkansas

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Little Rock, Arkansas

Date: 25-FEB-20
Time: 20:00:00Z
Aircraft Make: AIR TRACTOR
Aircraft Model: AT502
Event Type: ACCIDENT
Highest Injury: MINOR
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: SUBSTANTIAL
Activity: AERIAL APPLICATION
Flight Phase: UNKNOWN (UNK)
Operation: 137
City: DUMAS
State: ARKANSAS

Ercoupe 415-C, N3437H: Accident occurred February 25, 2020 at Torrance Municipal Airport / Zamperini Field Airport (KTOA), Los Angeles County, California

This is preliminary information, subject to change, and may contain errors. Any errors in this report will be corrected when the final report has been completed. 

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

Additional Participating Entity:

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Long Beach, California

Location: Torrance, CA

Accident Number: WPR20LA094
Date & Time: 02/25/2020, 1220 PST
Registration: N3437H
Aircraft: Ercoupe 415
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On February 25, 2020, about 1220 Pacific standard time, an Ercoupe 415C, N3437H, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident at Zamperini Field Airport, Torrance, California. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot stated that following departure, she had completed two touch-and-go practice takeoffs and landings without mishap. During the third takeoff, when the airplane was about ¾ down runway 29R, at an altitude of about 200 feet above ground level (agl), the engine experienced a partial loss of power. The pilot opted to make a 90-degree left turn to land at the airport on taxiway bravo. After touchdown, despite the pilot's aggressive braking action, the airplane veered left and collided with two parked, unoccupied airplanes.

The airplane was recovered for further examination.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Ercoupe
Registration: N3437H
Model/Series: 415 C
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: KTOA, 90 ft msl
Observation Time:
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 24°C / 10°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 8 knots / , 280°
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility:  10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 30.17 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Torrance, CA (TOA)
Destination: Torrance, CA (TOA)

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: 33.803056, -118.338056





A plane crashed into two parked aircraft along the taxiway of a Torrance airport Tuesday afternoon, and all three sustained damage officials said.

The incident unfolded about 12:15 p.m. at Zamperini Field, 3301 Airport Drive.

The pilot of a single-engine Ercoupe 415-C made an emergency landing on a taxiway while performing touch-and-goes when it crashed into two unoccupied parked planes, Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Ian Gregor told KTLA.

The two other planes were described as being Piper PA28 and a Cessna 206.

Two people in the Ercoupe when it crashed, but it is unclear if they were injured.

All three planes sustained damage during the incident, one of which had its tail partially torn off, aerial video from Sky5 showed.

Several planes remained on the taxiway after the incident, the video showed.

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

Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, N54190: Incident occurred February 24, 2020 at Inverness Airport (KINF), Citrus County, Florida

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

Aircraft ground looped on landing resulting in a propeller strike. 

Dolphin Capital LLC

https://registry.faa.gov/N54190

Date: 24-FEB-20
Time: 21:00:00Z
Regis#: N54190
Aircraft Make: PIPER
Aircraft Model: PA18
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: INSTRUCTION
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: INVERNESS
State: FLORIDA

Cessna 172S Skyhawk SP, N5258Y: Incidents occurred January 23, 2021 and February 23, 2020 at Johnson County Executive Airport (KOJC), Olathe, Kansas

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Kansas City 

January 23, 2021:  Aircraft departed and struck a bird. 

T & C Aviation Enterprises Inc


Date: 23-JAN-21
Time: 20:40:00Z
Regis#: N5258Y
Aircraft Make: CESSNA
Aircraft Model: 172
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: INSTRUCTION
Flight Phase: TAKEOFF (TOF)
Operation: 91
City: OLATHE
State: KANSAS

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Kansas City

February 23, 2020:  Aircraft landed and went off the runway into the grass striking taxiway edge lights.

Date: 23-FEB-20
Time: 22:00:00Z
Regis#: N5258Y
Aircraft Make: CESSNA
Aircraft Model: 172
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: INSTRUCTION
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: OLATHE
State: KANSAS

Runway Excursion: Learjet 55, N135LR; accident occurred February 25, 2020 at Monmouth Executive Airport (KBLM), Farmingdale, New Jersey -and- Incident occurred May 03, 2018 at Palm Beach International Airport (KPBI), West Palm Beach, Florida



View of broken nose gear 


 View of runway environment where airplane departed runway 14 

View of top of airplane showing buckling on the top of the fuselage 

 View of right side of fuselage showing buckling 



Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board 

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Teterboro, New Jersey

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

https://registry.faa.gov/N135LR

Location: Farmingdale, NJ
Accident Number: ERA20CA113
Date & Time: 02/25/2020, 2356 EST
Registration: N135LR
Aircraft: Learjet 55
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Runway excursion
Injuries: 5 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 135: Air Taxi & Commuter - Non-scheduled

Analysis

The pilot reported that he and the copilot were conducting an instrument approach to the runway in a business jet. He noted that the weather conditions included fog and mist. After touching down about 1,500 ft down the 7,300-ft-long runway, he engaged the thrust reversers and applied the brakes gradually because the runway was "slippery." As the airplane approached the end of the runway, he applied full braking, but the airplane departed the end of the runway and impacted a ditch, which resulted in the forward landing gear breaking and the airplane nosing down. The copilot corroborated the pilot's statement. The fuselage was substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures 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 flight crew's failure to stop the airplane on the available runway, which was wet and resulted in the airplane impacting a ditch.

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Flight crew
Aircraft Landing distance - Capability exceeded
Environmental issues Wet surface - Effect on operation
Environmental issues Sloped/uneven terrain - Effect on operation
Personnel issues Delayed action - Flight crew

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing Other weather encounter
Landing Runway excursion (Defining event)
Landing Collision during takeoff/land
Landing Landing gear collapse
Landing Nose over/nose down

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline Transport
Age: 68, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 4-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: 11/19/2019
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 02/13/2020
Flight Time:   18288 hours (Total, all aircraft), 2909.8 hours (Total, this make and model), 8713 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft)

Co-Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline Transport
Age: 63, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Right
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present:Yes 
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed:No 
Medical Certification: Class 1 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 11/19/2019
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 02/13/2020
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 14759 hours (Total, all aircraft), 1978.9 hours (Total, this make and model), 104.3 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 35.6 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 1.5 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Learjet
Registration:N135LR 
Model/Series: 55 Undesignated
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture:
Amateur Built:No 
Airworthiness Certificate: Transport
Serial Number: 068
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Seats: 8
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 11/18/2019, Continuous Airworthiness
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 21500 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 2 Turbo Fan
Airframe Total Time: 12792.3 Hours as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Garret
ELT: Installed
Engine Model/Series: TFG 731-3AR-2
Registered Owner: Expectra Aviation Inc
Rated Power: 3800 lbs
Operator: NORTHWEST AIRCRAFT RENTAL INC
Operating Certificate(s) Held: On-demand Air Taxi (135)
Operator Does Business As: Upper Jets
Operator Designator Code: GLRA

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Instrument Conditions
Condition of Light: Night/Dark
Observation Facility, Elevation: BLM, 153 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 2356 EST
Direction from Accident Site: 0°
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Visibility:  6 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 600 ft agl
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 4 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 120°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 29.85 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 8°C / 8°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: Light - Showers - Rain
Departure Point: Richmond, VA (RIC)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: IFR
Destination: Farmingdale, NJ (BLM)
Type of Clearance: IFR
Departure Time: 2300 EST
Type of Airspace: Class E

Airport Information

Airport: Monmouth Executive (BLM)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 153 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Wet
Runway Used: 14
IFR Approach: RNAV
Runway Length/Width: 7345 ft / 85 ft
VFR Approach/Landing:

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 3 None
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 5 None
Latitude, Longitude:  40.186667, -74.124444 (est)










WALL - Things could have been much worse for the people aboard a jet that skidded off the runway onto the edge of a hillside at Monmouth Executive Airport in Wall on Tuesday night, an airport official said.  

What saved them was the runway, said Rita Spader, the airport's director. "If it wasn't for our 7,500-foot runway, things could have been much worse."

The three passengers and two crew members on the plane were uninjured, Spader said.

The plane, a Learjet 55, was pulled Wednesday from the hillside by the same crane operator who pulled Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger's US Airways passenger jet from the Hudson River in 2009, Spader said.

The plane was towed to a hangar where the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board will conduct an investigation.

The FAA did not respond to calls about the incident, and the NTSB had nothing on record about it as of 10 a.m. Wednesday. 

The Learjet 55 has a cruising speed of 285 mph and a range of 2,492 miles. This particular airplane was made in 1982 and refurbished in 2013. It seats seven.

The jet was coming in from Richmond, Virginia, at 11:56 p.m. when the incident occurred, according to Spader. 

When the passengers requested the flight from Virginia to New Jersey, the pilot, who has 45 years of flying experience, suggested flying into Teterboro Airport because of low-visibility at Monmouth, Spader said.

But the passengers, who are Monmouth locals, insisted on flying to the Wall airport, she s

The airport was closed until after the plane was removed around noon Wednesday.

According to records, the private jet is owned by Expectra Aviation Inc., a corporation out of Dover, Delaware. It is managed by AP Global Jets.

"The brakes were fine and the maintenance of the plane was perfect," said Raul Hernandez, who cleans the planes for AP Global Jet. He said the company is fully cooperating with the FAA's investigation.

Hernandez said the slickness of the runway was most likely the reason the plane slid onto the hillside.

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

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; South Florida

Aircraft aborted takeoff due to blown tire, towed to ramp.

Date: 03-MAY-18
Time: 16:56:00Z
Regis#: N135LR
Aircraft Make: GATES LEARJET
Aircraft Model: 55
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: UNKNOWN
Flight Phase: TAKEOFF (TOF)
City: WEST PALM BEACH
State: FLORIDA