Van's RV-4, N54WP: Accident occurred July 22, 2020 near McCurtain County Regional Airport (4O4), Idabel, Oklahoma

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;
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

https://registry.faa.gov/N54WP

Location: Idabel, OK
Accident Number: CEN20LA301
Date & Time: 07/22/2020, 1745 CDT
Registration: N54WP
Aircraft: Vans RV4
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

On July 22, 2020, about 1745 central daylight time, a Vans RV4, N54WP, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Idabel, Oklahoma. The airline transport private pilot and 1 child passenger were not injured. The airplane was being operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 personal flight.

According to the pilot, he was on a multi-leg cross country flight. On a planned refueling stop in Kennett, Missouri (TKX), the pilot noticed an oil leak coming from a chaffed oil line leading to the propeller governor. The pilot, with assistance from a local FBO, removed the damaged oil line and replaced the line with a used serviceable oil line. After the installation and preflight, the pilot took off and climbed to 5,500 feet MSL, enroute to his destination. About 70 minutes later, the pilot smelled something and observed oil on the windscreen. The pilot asked Air Traffic Control (ATC) for the nearest airport, which was about 11-miles away. As the pilot was maneuvering to the airport to land, the engine stopped producing power. About 1/2 mile from the airport, about 70-feet above the ground, the pilot attempted to maneuver the airplane to land on a roadway. The airplane impacted power lines and the ground. The pilot stated that he could not see the power lines through the oil covered windscreen. The airplane came to rest in a ditch adjacent to the roadway, resulting in structural damage to the fuselage and empennage. Both occupants exited the airplane uninjured and emergency personnel arrived.

Examination of the engine after the accident revealed a crack in the oil line leading to the propeller governor. There was no clamp securing the oil line.

The experimental airplane had completed a conditional airworthiness inspection on May 1, 2020. According to FAA Airworthiness Directive AD 90-04-06R1, a clamp should have been installed on the oil line leading to the propeller governor. The pilot reported that when he replaced the oil line at TKX, there was no clamp present, so he did not install a clamp and was not aware of the applicable AD. He also reported that had he been aware of the AD, he would have installed a new oil line and clamp.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Vans
Registration: N54WP
Model/Series: RV4 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: 4O4, 471 ft msl
Observation Time: 1735 CDT
Distance from Accident Site: 1 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 26°C / 21°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 7 knots / , 130°
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility: 10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.96 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Kennett, MO (TKX)
Destination: Midlothian, TX (T56)

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: 33.900000, -94.830000 (est)

IDABEL, Oklahoma (KSLA) — At approximately 6 p.m. on July 22nd, a small plane carrying two people crashed near the McCurtain County Regional Airport in Idabel, Oklahoma.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol says they were called to assist after the father and son crash-landed.

The pair were flying the plane when technical issues forced them to initiate an emergency landing.

While descending, the plane made contact with power lines, causing the crash.

Both individuals survived the crash and are reported to be OK.

https://www.ksla.com

de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver, N4982U and Piper PA-12 Super Cruiser, N2587M: Fatal accident occurred July 31, 2020 in Soldotna, Alaska

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 Entities:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Anchorage, Alaska
High Adventure Air Charter; Soldotna, Alaska

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket

Soldotna Aircraft & Equipment Leasing LLC

https://registry.faa.gov/N4982U 

https://registry.faa.gov/N2587M

Location: Soldotna, AK 

Accident Number: ANC20LA074

Date & Time: July 31, 2020, 08:27 Local

Registration: N4982U (A1); N2587M (A2)

Aircraft: De Havilland DHC-2 (A1); Piper PA 12 (A2)

Injuries: 6 Fatal (A1); 1 Fatal (A2)

Flight Conducted Under: Part 135: Air taxi & commuter - Non-scheduled (A1); Part 91: General aviation - Personal (A2)

On July 31, 2020, about 0827 Alaska daylight time, a de Havilland DHC-2 (Beaver) airplane, N4982U, and a Piper PA-12 airplane, N2587M, were destroyed when they were involved in an accident near Soldotna, Alaska. Both pilots and the five passengers on the DHC-2 were fatally injured. The DHC-2 was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 135 on-demand charter flight. The PA-12 was operated as a Title 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight.

The float-equipped DHC-2, operated by High Adventure Charter, departed Longmere Lake, Soldotna, about 0824 bound for a remote lake on the west side of Cook Inlet. The purpose of the flight was to transport the passengers to a remote fishing location. The PA-12, operated by a private individual, departed Soldotna Airport, Soldotna, Alaska, about 0824 bound for Fairbanks, Alaska.

Preliminary flight track data revealed that the DHC-2 was traveling northwest about 1,175 ft mean sea level (msl) and gradually climbing about 78 knots (kts) when it crossed the Sterling Highway. The PA-12 was traveling northeast about 1,175 ft msl and about 71 kts north of and parallel to the Sterling Highway. The airplanes collided about 2.5 miles northeast of the Soldotna airport at an altitude of about 1,175 ft msl and data signals were lost. See Figure 1 for the airplanes' flight tracks.

A witness located near the accident site observed the DHC-2 traveling in a westerly direction and the PA-12 traveling in a northerly direction. He stated that the PA-12 impacted the DHC-2 on the left side of the fuselage toward the back of the airplane. After the collision, he observed what he believed to be the DHC-2's left wing separate, and the airplane entered an uncontrolled, descending counterclockwise spiral before disappearing from view. He did not observe the PA-12 following the collision.

The DHC-2 main wreckage was heavily fragmented and located in a wooded residential area; the fuselage was oriented on a heading of about 270° at an elevation of about 240 ft. A debris field about 300 ft long and oriented on about a 327° heading included the engine, fuselage, wings, vertical stabilizer, and portions of the floats. Dark green paint transfers consistent with the PA-12 were observed on the aft fuselage of the DHC-2. The PA-12 main wreckage was located about 600 ft east of the DHC-2. The airplane impacted in a near vertical attitude and came to rest at an elevation of about 258 ft. The horizontal stabilizer and one elevator from the DHC-2 were found intertwined in the wreckage of the PA-12.

The DHC-2 was registered to Soldotna Aircraft and Equipment Leasing. A registration card located inside the PA-12 identified the airplane as a Piper PA-12 with a registration number of N2587M. The Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) registration database revealed that N2587M was a valid registration for a Piper PA-12 assigned to the pilot. However, the PA-12's exterior registration number identified the airplane as N1904T; in addition, the word "EXPERIMENTAL" was applied to the inside of the lower clam shell door. A search of the FAA registration database revealed that the registration number had been reserved by the pilot but was not a valid registration.

According to information on file with the FAA Civil Aeromedical Institute, the pilot of the PA-12 was denied medical certification in June 2012 by the Alaska Regional Flight Surgeon due to vision problems. The denial was appealed and sustained in July 2012.

Neither airplane was equipped with, nor were they required to be equipped with, a crashworthy flight data or cockpit voice recorder. Several avionics components and personal electronic devices were recovered from the wreckage areas. These components and devices were shipped to the National Transportation Safety Board Vehicle Recorders Laboratory, Washington, DC, for further examination.

A detailed wreckage examination of both airplanes is pending. 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information (A1)

Aircraft Make: De Havilland 

Registration: N4982U

Model/Series: DHC-2 

Aircraft Category: Airplane

Amateur Built: No

Operator: 

Operating Certificate(s) Held: On-demand air taxi (135)

Operator Designator Code:

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information (A2)

Aircraft Make: Piper 

Registration: N2587M

Model/Series: PA 12 

Aircraft Category: Airplane

Amateur Built: No

Operator: On file 

Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Operator Designator Code:

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: VMC 

Condition of Light: Day

Observation Facility, Elevation: PASX, 113 ft msl

Observation Time:

Distance from Accident Site: 2 Nautical Miles

Temperature/Dew Point: 15°C /11°C

Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear

Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: / ,

Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 8500 ft AGL

Visibility: 10 miles

Altimeter Setting: 29.93 inches Hg 

Type of Flight Plan Filed:

Departure Point: 

Destination: 

Wreckage and Impact Information (A1)

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal 

Aircraft Damage: Destroyed

Passenger Injuries: 5 Fatal

Aircraft Fire: None

Ground Injuries: 

Aircraft Explosion: None

Total Injuries: 6 Fatal 

Latitude, Longitude: 60.495555,-151.01693

Wreckage and Impact Information (A2)

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal 

Aircraft Damage: Destroyed

Passenger Injuries: 

Aircraft Fire: None

Ground Injuries:

Aircraft Explosion: None

Total Injuries: 1 Fatal

Latitude, Longitude: 60.495555,-151.01693

Longtime Alaskan and Kenai resident, Mr. Gary Allan Knopp, 63, died July 31st, 2020 in a tragic plane accident near Soldotna, Alaska.

Gary was born July 14, 1957 in Whitefish, Montana. He moved to Alaska in 1979 living in Anchorage, Sterling and Kenai. Gary was in the Alaska State Legislature, Representative of House District 30. He also owned and operated G&H Construction with his wife Helen.

Gary was elected to the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly in 2006. He served on the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly from 2006 to 2012, serving as President from 2010 to 2012. Gary returned to the Assembly in 2015 before being elected to represent District 30 at the State level in 2016. He loved flying, hunting, fishing, and golfing.

He was preceded in death by his father, Herbert Knopp; mother, Celia Knopp; sisters, Lorraine Zable, Leona Cunningham, and Lucille Treat.

He is survived by his wife, Helen Knopp of Kenai; brothers, Gordon Knopp of Post Falls, Idaho and Raymond Knopp of Kalispell, Montana; sisters, Linda Smith of Tacoma, WA; Loretta Johnson of Anchorage and LaVonne Crawford of Gig Harbor, WA.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the church in Gary’s name. Any condolences may be sent to Helen Knopp - 50465 Patrick Drive‬ - Kenai, Alaska 99611‬.

Services will be held for Representative Gary Knopp ‪on Saturday August 8, 2020‬. There will be a Mass of Christian burial at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, ‪222 W. Redoubt Ave. Soldotna, Alaska‬ ‪at 12:00 PM‬. Father Patrick Brosamer will be officiating.

A Celebration of Life will follow the service at Hutchings Auto Spa ‪44110 Sterling Hwy. Soldotna, Alaska.‬ Due to concerns regarding COVID-19 food will not be provided. However, The Hearth Eatery food truck will have food for purchase on site.  Arrangements made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel & Crematory. Please sign or visit his online guestbook at AlaskanFuneral.com.

Greg Bell, who was 57, was a co-owner of High Adventure Air Charter, a lifelong Soldotna resident.

The central Kenai Peninsula community was shocked on Friday when two small planes collided above Soldotna and killed all seven people onboard.

The crash happened around 8:30 a.m. A de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver from High Adventure Air Charter on Longmere Lake collided midair with a Piper PA-12 Super Cruiser, piloted by state Rep. Gary Knopp of Kenai, sending both planes down around Mayoni Street just east of town.

It’s still not clear what happened. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating. And the community is mourning the loss.

The pilot of the de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver plane was 57-year-old Greg Bell. Bell was a co-owner of High Adventure Air Charter, a lifelong Soldotna resident and a longtime pilot.

Friends, colleagues and clients remembered him as a cheerful, skilled pilot and a man of faith.

“He was very, very conscientious, very personable,” said Gary Fandrei, of Kenai. “He was always aware of what other people’s need were, always wanted to make everyone comfortable.”

Fandrei took over at Cook Inlet Aquaculture Association in the early 1990s. Back then, he said he flew with Bell and his brother Mark at High Adventure Air Charter almost daily.

Fandrei said Bell was a leader in his family and business.

“I think Greg is going to be missed not only by the family and the community as well,” he said. “It’s unfortunate that this is the way things worked out for him. I wish the family the best of luck.”

Bell was born and raised in Alaska, and the charter business was a family endeavor.

Over the decades, the company grew. It now employs nine guides and multiple office staff and pilots.

In addition to the bear viewing, transportation and fishing charters, Bell also regularly worked with agencies like the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and Cook Inlet Aquaculture, a nonprofit that works to protect and enhance salmon stocks.

Sen. Peter Micciche of Soldotna remembered Bell’s dedication to safety and recalled his dedication to a job.

On a trip to the west side of the inlet several years ago, Micciche said, Bell was supposed to pick him up, but the wind kicked up. Just as they thought they’d have to wait out the weather, they heard a boat motor coming down the river.

“After a little while we hear a little engine, look over and it’s Greg in a skiff,” he said. “That’s the kind of pilot he was. We all froze to death going back, but he didn’t want to leave us another night in that weather, and he wouldn’t consider taking off in the crosswinds on the river, so he took us all the way up the river to the lake where they had some other assets.”

So you just always knew you were in the best of hands — he would take no chances, he was a gentleman,” Micciche said.

He said Bell’s faith was strong and evident, describing him as a “perfect Christian gentleman.”

That didn’t stop Bell from being an excellent hockey player, though, Micciche said. Bell will be missed by the community, and Micciche urged locals to support his family in every way they can.

“I ask the community to please do what they can to support the Bell family, his wife and everyone at High Adventure Air are going through a very tough time,” he said. “I think I they hear of opportunities to support them, do so, and obviously as well as Rep. Knopp’s family. But it’s a tough time for them.”

Bell was flying with five passengers: David Rogers, a guide, and four visitors from South Carolina: Caleb Hulsey, Heather Hulsey, Mackay Hulsey, and Kirsten Wright, all in their 20s.

Tributes on social media from various community members, lawmakers and past clients offered prayers and condolences to the families involved.

The investigation into the cause of the crash continues. The NTSB reportedly went to the scene to collect the parts of the planes and will continue to investigate.

Alaska Department of Public Safety Commissioner Amanda Price offered her condolences to everyone who lost a loved one in the crash Friday, calling it an unfathomable tragedy.

https://www.alaskapublic.org

David Rogers

David Allen John Rogers, age 40 of Stockton, Kansas, passed away on July 31, 2020 from a tragic, small craft mid-air collision in Soldotna, Alaska. He was born on January 10, 1980, in Denver, Colorado. He was raised by his mother Renee (Hollingsworth) Rogers and husband Nick. On February 14, 2002, he was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Rhonda Hebert in Golden, Colorado. They were blessed with three children, Madison, Ben, and Troy.

David grew up in Denver and graduated from Bear Creek High School with the Class of 1998. After graduation David immediately entered the workforce. For several years he did various jobs in pipefitting, carpentry, hardwood flooring, installing windows with Uncle Brent, and washing semis with Grandpa Lloyd. He liked traveling with Grandma Ruby and Grandpa Lloyd, and developed a deep passion for the outdoors, especially hunting, camping, and fishing. He made up his mind early on, that somehow, someway, he was going to be a professional wilderness guide.

That dream became a reality when David moved his family to Stockton. During the Summer months, he spent his days leading adventures on the Alaskan frontier, and would then return home to do the same in Rooks County, and surrounding areas, the rest of the year, through his own hunting guide business, “Beyond The Bend.” He chose that name because true to his adventurous spirit, he always knew there was something amazing, wonderful, and surprising just waiting for him and his fearless compadres, over, around, or beyond the next bend of whatever river, road, or trail they were traveling.

David had a sense of humor that was all his own. His infectious smile and use of clever sayings, known as “Davisms,” like “you get what you go get” could always put friends, family, and strangers at ease, even if there was a little tension in the air between folks. It didn’t matter who you were, when you heard him say, “We came here to kick ass and chew bubble gum! And we’re all out of bubble gum!” well, all you could do was laugh, shake your head in agreement, and get on with gettin’ along.

Unapologetic for being himself, he didn’t embarrass easily, if at all. If his clothes didn’t match, so what? If he had a tough day in the fields and came home with half a shirt and most of his sock material missing, who cares? And if he was driving, swerving on the road, looking for deer, turkeys, or sheds, you’d best just stay out of his way, or hold on for dear life if you were riding with him. Although his mom always told him to be, “Less like a rocket ship and more like a balloon,” having that Rogers’ stubborn streak, and one-track mind, he didn’t always heed that advice real close.

With all of his million-dollar ideas, like seasoned shotgun shells, David had his own unique flair in the culinary department as well. First of all, butter is not just an occasional condiment, it is a food group unto itself that goes on everything. Second, the best treat while traveling the frozen tundra of Alaska, is a PBJ Smoothie, nothing else will do. And finally, all we really know about the Coffee Bomb, is that you take unspecified portions of coffee, hot chocolate, and heavy whipping cream, then add a ridiculous amount of butter with a dash of cinnamon, and then, well, there you have it. Probably called the Bomb because it would simply take out the average coffee drinker. It is definitely not for lightweights. Which would explain the huge amount of adrenaline, buzz, and excitement, as he loudly and proudly proclaim at the beginning of each hunting excursion, “Let’s go get our asses kicked!”

Never one to shy away from saying, “I love you,” David was a devoted family man, husband, and father. He was an early morning guy, so, when he got up, it was time for everyone to be up. Although, at times, family came dragging out of bed, they knew the day was always going to be full of fun and good times. A devoted TikTok-er, well, really an obsessed addict, he spent hours sharing clips and videos with his kids, laughing and carrying on, in their own little world of sheer joy and hilarity. And, if he started to take off his socks, look out, because somebody was getting hit!

An avid sports fan, especially when his kids were playing, David was the quintessential sideline coach for every kid, no matter the sport. Always encouraging them, he strived to help them be their best at everything, and often reminded them, “If you can’t see yourself making it, you won’t.” Supplied with popcorn, water, and Snickers bars at every game, he made sure that winning was a joyous yet humble celebration, and losing was just another step forward with a lesson on how to do better next time.

Left to mourn David’s untimely passing are his wife, Rhonda of the home in Stockton; his children, Madison of Topeka, and Ben and Troy Rogers of Stockton; mother Renee Rogers of Hays, KS; father Nick Rogers of Littleton, CO; sister, Hollie Aukland and husband Craig of Littleton, CO; brothers, Ty Rogers of Brooklyn, NY, and Christopher Rogers of Huntsville, TX; grandparents, Bill and Sharon Rogers of Lakewood, CO; parents-in-law, Joe and Sue Hebert of Denver, CO; sisters and brothers-in-law, Lynn and Dave Montoya of Buena Vista, CO and Melissa and Adam Fearn of Lakewood, CO; nieces and nephews, Payton and Braylon Aukland, Ayden and Avery Fearn, and Cheyenne, Colton, and Tucker Montoya; and many aunts, uncles, and friends.

Preceding David in death are his grandparents Lloyd and Ruby Hollingsworth; Mike Graham; and Michelle Hollingsworth.

The Word of God instructs us, “Ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know what the hand of the Lord has done? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” David was a man of deep and growing faith. Although he did not realize it when he began, the more time he spent in the whole of God’s creation, day by day, closer and closer, the Lord was gently drawing him to Himself. Drawing him into a deeper understanding of life and love, and what it means to be a man, not just within his own heart and soul, but in the hearts and souls of his family, friends, neighbors, and God. In the final moments of his life, we do not know exactly what happened, but one thing is certain, as David flew over the beautiful landscape of the Alaskan heartland, just above the breaking clouds, we hope he felt, in that moment, as if he could reach out and touch the very face of God. Then suddenly, in the twinkling of an eye, he did.

The service will be live-streamed.  Memorials are suggested to the David Rogers Memorial Fund and may be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669, or please find the Venmo QR Code on the Tribute Wall page.

https://www.plumeroverlease.com

Pictured left to right: Caleb Hulsey and Heather Hulsey, Mackay Husley and Kirstin Wright.

(Courtesy of the Family)

SOLDOTNA, ALASKA (FOX Carolina) Alaskan state officials say seven people were killed when two planes collided over the Kenai Peninsula Friday morning, including four passengers from South Carolina.

According to a press release from the Alaska Department of Public Safety, the mid-air collision happened around 8:30 a.m. local time over Soldotna. The initial plane crash was near mile 91.5 of the Sterling Highway, which was shut down temporarily due to safety concerns. Most of the wreckage was found 200 yards from the road, and had multiple witnesses reporting it. The release indicated multiple agencies, from local police and state troopers to the FAA, have all responded.

Alaska State Troopers say one plane involved had a single occupant, while the other aircraft had six people onboard. While one person was found alive on the scene, that initial survivor passed away, succumbing to injuries en route to the local hospital.

Those who passed away were identified as follows:

Alaska state Representative Gary Knopp of Kenai, the sole occupant in one plane
Gregory Bell, 67, of Soldotna, the pilot of the other plane
David Rogers, a 40-year-old guide from Kansas
Caleb Hulsey, age 26, from South Carolina
Heather Hulsey, age 25, from South Carolina
Mackay Hulsey, age 24, of South Carolina
Kirstin Wright, age 23, of South Carolina

According to family and friends, the Hulsey family was on vacation during the time.

The family provided a statement on the four victims:

"Both couples were high school sweethearts.

Caleb and Heather started dating in 2010 and recently got married in 2019. Mackay and Kirsten have been dating since 2011 and had plans to get married.

They all had a love of each other and their families and animals and traveled all over the world together with Heather, Alan and Harrison.

Caleb worked with his father at palmetto SoundWorks and Mackay was a personal trainer. Heather was an art teacher at Dawkins middle school and Kirsten worked for pinnacle hospitality as a social media director.

Caleb and Heather were in the process of purchasing a home, a bigger home to start their family.

Family is requesting that in lieu of flowers or anything else that donations are made to Christmas In Action. Contact information is Cindy Barrett which the entire family was involved with extensively for the past 10 years.”

Saturday morning, Spartanburg County School District Six Superintendent Owings announced via Facebook that Heather Husley was an art teacher at Dawkins Middle School.

The District Six family is heartbroken after learning that a Dawkins Middle school art teacher, Heather Hulsey, passed away in a plane accident during a trip to Alaska. Heather was an inspiring teacher who had a tremendous impact on her students and colleagues. She was a wonderful person who was well-loved by our school community. Heather’s husband, Caleb Hulsey, his brother Mackay, and friend, Kirstin Wright, also passed away. The Hulsey family is strongly connected to our District Six family. This is a tragedy beyond words. We ask that you keep their families in your thoughts and prayers.

Dr. Darryl Owings
District Six Superintendent

The NTSB was notified and will begin their investigation, per Alaska DPS.

“This is an unfathomable tragedy for multiple families today. The DPS sends a heartfelt condolence to all who lost a loved one in this mid-air collision,” said Commissioner Amanda Price, Department of Public Safety. “Troopers and partner agencies have worked together diligently at the scene and have reached out to next of kin to notify them of this heartbreaking incident.”

In a series of tweets, Alaska governor Mike Dunleavy expressed his condolences for those who where killed in the collision.

The crash Friday happened more than seven years after another similarly tragic incident. In July 2013, two families from Greenville were killed near Soldotna after a small, single-engine plane crashed on takeoff at the local airport, claiming the lives of two families.

To support the loved ones of the victims of the Alaskan plane crash, go to their GoFundMe here.

To support the loved ones of the Hulsey, Dillard, and Wright families, go to their GoFundMe here.

https://www.foxcarolina.com

Loss of Control on Ground: Cessna T206H Turbo Stationair, N829PA; accident occurred August 01, 2020 at Bentonville Municipal Airport (KVBT), Benton County, Arkansas

   

Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

Additional Participating Entity:

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

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket

Summit Aviation LLC

https://registry.faa.gov/N829PA

Location: Bentonville, Arkansas

Accident Number: CEN20CA349

Date & Time: July 31, 2020, 20:00 Local

Registration: N829PA

Aircraft: Cessna T206 

Aircraft Damage: Substantial

Defining Event: Loss of control on ground 

Injuries: 2 None

Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The pilot reported landing "flat" and the airplane "bounced." After a second "bounce" the pilot initiated a go-around. However, when the nose landing gear contacted the runway a third time, the nose wheel "blew out." The airplane veered to the left, exited the runway pavement, and nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot observed no anomalies during the preflight inspection. A flight instructor who witnessed the accident stated that the airplane remained in a "nose down pitch attitude" until the nose wheel contacted the runway which caused the airplane to "bounce." After the third bounce, the nose wheel "blew out sending white smoke into the air."

Probable Cause and Findings

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

The pilot's misjudgment of the landing flare which resulted in a bounced landing.

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot

Aircraft Landing flare - Not attained/maintained

Personnel issues Decision making/judgment - Pilot

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing-flare/touchdown Abnormal runway contact

Landing-aborted after

touchdown

Loss of control on ground (Defining event)

Landing-aborted after

touchdown

Runway excursion

Landing-aborted after

touchdown

Nose over/nose down

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private Age: 40,Male

Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land 

Seat Occupied: Left

Other Aircraft Rating(s): None

Restraint Used: 3-point

Instrument Rating(s): None

Second Pilot Present: No

Instructor Rating(s): None

Toxicology Performed: No

Medical Certification: Class 3 Without waivers/limitations

Last FAA Medical Exam: August 28, 2018

Occupational Pilot: No

Last Flight Review or Equivalent: December 20, 2019

Flight Time: 162.6 hours (Total, all aircraft), 11.1 hours (Total, this make and model), 54 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 20.3 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna

Registration: N829PA

Model/Series: T206 H 

Aircraft Category: Airplane

Year of Manufacture: 2009

Amateur Built: No

Airworthiness Certificate: Normal

Serial Number: T20608950

Landing Gear Type: Tricycle

Seats: 6

Date/Type of Last Inspection: January 20, 2020 Annual

Certified Max Gross Wt.: 3600 lbs

Time Since Last Inspection: 62 Hrs 

Engines: 1 Reciprocating

Airframe Total Time: 731.5 Hrs at time of accident

Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming

ELT: Installed, activated, did not aid in locating accident

Engine Model/Series: TIO-540-AJ1A

Registered Owner: 

Rated Power: 310 Horsepower

Operator: 

Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC) 

Condition of Light: Day

Observation Facility, Elevation: VBT,1298 ft msl 

Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles

Observation Time: 19:56 Local

Direction from Accident Site: 360°

Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear

Visibility: 10 miles

Lowest Ceiling: None

Visibility (RVR):

Wind Speed/Gusts: 4 knots /

Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /

Wind Direction: 300° 

Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /

Altimeter Setting: 30 inches Hg

Temperature/Dew Point: 26°C / 17°C

Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation

Departure Point: Branson, MO (PLK)

Type of Flight Plan Filed: None

Destination: Bentonville, AR (VBT)

Type of Clearance: None

Departure Time: 19:30 Local 

Type of Airspace: Class E

Airport Information

Airport: Bentonville Muni/Louise M Thad VBT

Runway Surface Type: Asphalt

Airport Elevation: 1298 ft msl 

Runway Surface Condition: Dry

Runway Used: 36

IFR Approach: None

Runway Length/Width: 4426 ft / 65 ft

VFR Approach/Landing: Go around; Traffic pattern

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: 36.345275,-94.219444(est)

BENTONVILLE, Arkansas — Emergency crews responded to the Bentonville Municipal Airport after a small plane blew a tire while landing.

According to airport manager Charles Chadwick, it was a single-engine plane that can seat two people.

Chadwick says the plane's front tire blew out during the landing. The tire dug into the ground and the plane flipped over.

No one was injured and the runway has been cleared.

https://www.5newsonline.com

Aviat Pitts S-2B Special, N197TJ: Incident occurred August 02, 2020 at Sacramento Executive Airport (KSAC), California

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

Aircraft landed hard and gear collapsed.

https://registry.faa.gov/N197TJ

Date: 02-AUG-20
Time: 17:50:00Z
Regis#: N197TJ
Aircraft Make: AVIAT
Aircraft Model: PITTS S2B
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: SACRAMENTO
State: CALIFORNIA

Beech F33A Bonanza, N8231L: Incident occurred August 02, 2020 at Watsonville Municipal Airport (KWVI), Santa Cruz County, California

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; San Jose, California

Aircraft landed gear up.

Rue Ell Enterprises Inc

https://registry.faa.gov/N8231L

Date: 02-AUG-20
Time: 18:39:00Z
Regis#: N8231L
Aircraft Make: BEECH
Aircraft Model: F33
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: WATSONVILLE
State: CALIFORNIA

Grumman American AA-5 Traveler, N7192L: Fatal accident occurred August 01, 2020 near Marion County Airport (X35), Dunnellon, Florida

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 Entities:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Orlando, Florida
Lycoming; Georgia

https://registry.faa.gov/N7192L

Location: Dunnellon, FL
Accident Number: ERA20LA271
Date & Time: 08/01/2020, EDT
Registration: N7192L
Aircraft: American Aviation AA 5
Injuries:1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

On August 1, 2020, at an unknown time, a Grumman American AA-5, N7192L, sustained substantial damage when it impacted terrain less than a mile west of the Marion County Airport (X35), Dunnellon, Florida. The private pilot was fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot/co-owner held a private pilot certificate with a rating for airplane single-engine land. According to the airport manager, the pilot texted his girlfriend at 1527 eastern daylight time and said he was going to "fly a couple laps" around the X35 traffic pattern. The pilot did not file a flight plan and was not in communication with air traffic control. When the girlfriend did not hear back from the pilot later that afternoon, she contacted the airport manager, who in turn notified law enforcement. A search was initiated, and the airplane was located the following morning less than a mile west of the airport in heavily wooded terrain.

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector examined the wreckage at the accident site and reported that the airplane collided with several trees and came to rest inverted. There was no post-impact fire. The engine had separated from the airframe and both wings sustained extensive impact damage.

According to the airplane's co-owner, she and the pilot had recently purchased the airplane. She said it had not flown in 14 years and the airplane was "in pieces" when it was purchased. The unassembled airplane was transported to the pilot's home, where it was partially assembled by the pilot, and then moved to X35. The pilot did not hold an FAA-issued mechanic certificate but was known to restore, build and repair vehicles and boats. The co-owner, who is not a pilot, said the pilot performed a test-flight of the newly assembled airplane on July 14, 2020, and reported that some of the gauges were not working. She thought one of the gauges was a fuel gauge.

The airport manager said the pilot was a "staple" at the airport and liked to "tinker" with things. His goal was to get the airplane to a point where he could have a certificated airframe & powerplant mechanic perform an annual inspection. The airport manager said the pilot had flown the airplane a few times before the accident flight. On one flight the engine sputtered and lost power, but the pilot was able to land safely back at the airport. The pilot told the airport manager he had a problem with vapor lock and some of the gauges were "acting up." The airport manager said that on the July 14th flight, the pilot was taking off and landing numerous times on the 5,000-ft-long runway. During this flight, the airplane struck a runway light and had a tail strike.

The pilot's last FAA third-class medical was issued on November 21, 2017 and expired at the end of November 2019. He did not report his flight hours at the time the medical certificate was issued.

The airplane wreckage was recovered for further examination.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: American Aviation
Registration: N7192L
Model/Series: AA 5 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: OCF, 89 ft msl
Observation Time: 1551 EDT
Distance from Accident Site: 10 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 35°C / 19°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: Calm / ,
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility: 10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.97 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Dunnellon, FL (X35)
Destination: Dunnellon, FL (X35)

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries:N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude: 29.061389, -82.397222

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.

The wreckage of a single-engine aircraft that crashed sometime after takeoff Saturday afternoon and claimed the life of the pilot was found early Sunday morning near the county airport in Dunnellon.

Donald Cheek, 48, the sole occupant of the Grumman American AA-5 Traveler, died as a result of the crash, according to Mike Grawe, Marion County Airport manager.

The crash site was located in a wooded area on gated acreage in the 17000 block of County Road 484, and the airport is located at 14968 SW 110th St., off County Road 484, in Dunnellon.

Grawe said Cheek, who has flown out of the airport for about a year, was believed to have taken off around 4 p.m. and was going to “fly patterns” around the airport based upon remarks made to a family member.

Grawe said he was not aware of any weather concerns Saturday and winds had been calm.

A search was initiated around 8 p.m., and the wreckage of the aircraft was located by electronic tracking, including cell phone pings, Grawe said.

Grawe’s search party found the crash site, which was about a half mile away from an east-west runway at the airport.

Marion County Sheriff’s Office was involved in the search, and Marion County Fire Rescue responded early Sunday to assist family members, Grawe said.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration, according to NTSB spokesperson Terry Williams.

https://www.ocala.com

Quad City Challenger II Clip Wing, N990SS: Accident occurred August 02, 2020 in Jonesboro, Jackson Parish, Louisiana

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; Baton Rouge, Louisiana

https://registry.faa.gov/N990SS

Location: Jonesboro, LA
Accident Number: CEN20LA322
Date & Time: 08/02/2020, 1904 CDT
Registration: N990SS
Aircraft: QUAD CITY CHALLENGER
Injuries: 2 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal

On August 2, 2020, about 1904 central daylight time, an experimental, amateur-built Quad City Challenger II Special airplane, N990SS, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Jonesboro, Louisiana. The pilot and passenger sustained serious injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

Witnesses reported that the airplane flew over their house. They heard the engine "backfire" and then it seemed to lose power. The airplane entered a gliding right turn, apparently attempting to return to the airport; however, they lost sight of it when it descended below the tree line.

The accident site was located in a wooded area about 3/4-mile north-northeast of the airport. An engine examination is planned once the airplane is recovered from the accident site.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: QUAD CITY
Registration: N990SS
Model/Series: CHALLENGER II SPECIAL
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: RSN, 311 ft msl
Observation Time: 1855 CDT
Distance from Accident Site: 19 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 29°C / 21°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: Calm / ,
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility: 10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.98 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Jonesboro, LA (F88)
Destination: Jonesboro, LA (F88)

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Serious
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 Serious
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 Serious
Latitude, Longitude: 32.213333, -92.729722

Jackson Parish Sheriff's Department

On August 2, 2020, the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call about a plane that had gone down west of the Jonesboro Airport in a wooded area. Responding units were able to locate the aircraft, which is described as a Quad City Challenger II Clip Wing.

The aircraft had two people onboard. They were both transported to Jackson Parish Hospital and airlifted to LSU-Shreveport. The passenger on board has been listed in critical condition and the pilot in stable condition with minor injuries.

Based off witnesses statements, it appears the aircraft had a engine malfunction. The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board were notified of the accident and is investigating the crash.

Cessna A188B AGWagon/AGTruck, N90834: Accident occurred July 31, 2020 in Memphis, Scotland County, Missouri

Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

Additional Participating Entity: 

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; St. Louis, Missouri 

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket

Wood's Flying Service LLC

https://registry.faa.gov/N90834

Location: Memphis, Missouri 

Accident Number: CEN20CA320

Date & Time: July 31, 2020, 07:05 Local

Registration: N90834

Aircraft: Cessna A188

Aircraft Damage: Substantial

Defining Event: Miscellaneous/other 

Injuries: 1 Minor

Flight Conducted Under: Part 137: Agricultural

Analysis

The pilot reported that he had just started flying this airplane five days before the accident as a contract pilot. Over the past four days, the operator had the airplane on the "ready pad" with all of the tie-downs and gust locks already removed. On the day of the accident, the airplane was tied down with all of the gust locks still installed. Prior to takeoff, the pilot completed a preflight inspection but did not remove the rudder gust lock. During the takeoff roll, the pilot had to use the brakes to keep the airplane centered on the runway, which made for a much longer takeoff roll. The airplane dragged in the 10 ft high corn off the end of the runway and lost lift, so the pilot made a forced landing in a field. During the landing roll the airplane collided with a tree and sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and empennage. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane. He stated that he should have completed a more thorough preflight inspection.

Probable Cause and Findings

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

The pilot did not remove the rudder gust lock during the preflight inspection, which resulted in a forced landing and collision with a tree.

Findings

Personnel issues Preflight inspection - Pilot

Aircraft Directional control - Attain/maintain not possible

Factual Information

History of Flight

Initial climb Loss of control in flight

Initial climb Collision during takeoff/land

Initial climb Miscellaneous/other (Defining event)

Initial climb Off-field or emergency landing

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial 

Age: 59,Male

Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land

Seat Occupied: Single

Other Aircraft Rating(s): None

Restraint Used: 3-point

Instrument Rating(s): Airplane 

Second Pilot Present: No

Instructor Rating(s): None

Toxicology Performed: No

Medical Certification: Class 2 With waivers/limitations

Last FAA Medical Exam: June 22, 2020

Occupational Pilot: Yes 

Last Flight Review or Equivalent: November 11, 2018

Flight Time: 2153 hours (Total, all aircraft), 153 hours (Total, this make and model), 2153 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 211 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 159 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 13 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna 

Registration: N90834

Model/Series: A188 B

Aircraft Category: Airplane

Year of Manufacture: 1979 

Amateur Built: No

Airworthiness Certificate: Restricted (Special)

Serial Number: 18803322T

Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel

Seats: 1

Date/Type of Last Inspection: April 15, 2020 Annual

Certified Max Gross Wt.:

Time Since Last Inspection: 

Engines: 1 Reciprocating

Airframe Total Time: 1531.5 Hrs at time of accident

Engine Manufacturer: Continental Motors

ELT: Not installed 

Engine Model/Series: IO-520-D

Registered Owner: 

Rated Power: 300 Horsepower

Operator: 

Operating Certificate(s) Held: Agricultural aircraft (137)

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)

Condition of Light: Day

Observation Facility, Elevation: KIRK,965 ft msl 

Distance from Accident Site: 24 Nautical Miles

Observation Time: 10:55 Local 

Direction from Accident Site: 223°

Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear

Visibility 10 miles

Lowest Ceiling: None 

Visibility (RVR):

Wind Speed/Gusts: 10 knots / 

Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /

Wind Direction: 40° 

Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /

Altimeter Setting: 29.97 inches Hg 

Temperature/Dew Point: 25°C / 17°C

Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation

Departure Point: Memphis, MO

Type of Flight Plan Filed: None

Destination: Memphis, MO 

Type of Clearance: None

Departure Time: 07:03 Local

Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport

Runway Surface Type: Grass/turf

Airport Elevation: 

Runway Surface Condition: Dry;Vegetation

Runway Used: 18 IFR

Approach: None

Runway Length/Width: 3600 ft / 200 ft 

VFR Approach/Landing: Forced landing

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Minor 

Aircraft Damage: Substantial

Passenger Injuries:

Aircraft Fire: None

Ground Injuries: N/A

Aircraft Explosion: None

Total Injuries: 1 Minor 

Latitude, Longitude: 40.396945,-92.181663(est)

 

NEAR MEMPHIS, Missouri — A crop duster was forced to make an emergency landing in northeast Missouri Friday morning.

It happened around 9 a.m. in a farm field four miles south of Memphis, Missouri.

Scotland County Chief Deputy Bryan Whitney told KTVO the plane was piloted by Kenneth H. Stump, 59, of Ward, Arkansas.

Stump was flying locally for Wood's Flying Service located outside Memphis.

Whitney said Stump took off from a private grass air strip and reached an altitude of 80 feet before experiencing a steering malfunction involving the rear tail rudder.

The Cessna A188B AGWagon/AGTruck aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in a field about a half-mile from where it took off.

Stump suffered minor injuries and was taken by private auto to Scotland County Hospital in Memphis for treatment.

Whitney said no fuel and no chemical leaked from the aircraft.

The incident was investigated by the Scotland County Sheriff's Office, Missouri State Highway Patrol and Federal Aviation Administration.

https://ktvo.com