Saturday, December 26, 2020

Loss of control on ground: Pitts S-1C Special, C-GMEE; accident occurred November 03, 2019 at Monument Valley Airport (UT25), San Juan County, Utah


Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board 

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Salt Lake City, Utah

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

https://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca

Location: Monument Valley, Utah
Accident Number: GAA20CA056
Date & Time: November 3, 2019, 11:45 Local
Registration: C-GMEE
Aircraft: Pitts S1 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground 
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The pilot reported that, while conducting a three-point landing, the biplane's lower right wing struck vegetation along the edge of the runway. The biplane then veered right off the runway. She decided to abort the landing and added power to go around, but the biplane ground looped to the left, and both lower wings struck the ground. The biplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both lower wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the biplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing after a wing struck vegetation, which resulted in a runway excursion and subsequent ground-loop.

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot
Aircraft Lateral/bank control - Not attained/maintained
Environmental issues Tree(s) - Effect on operation

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing Loss of control on ground (Defining event)
Landing-flare/touchdown Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial
Age: 28, Female
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Single-engine sea; Multi-engine land; Multiengine sea
Seat Occupied: Unknown
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None 
Restraint Used: 5-point
Instrument Rating(s): None 
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None 
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 1 With waivers/limitations Last FAA Medical Exam: August 30, 2019
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: May 1, 2019
Flight Time: (Estimated) 1700 hours (Total, all aircraft), 350 hours (Total, this make and model), 1500 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 150 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 30 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 1 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Pitts
Registration: C-GMEE
Model/Series: S1 C 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1980 
Amateur Built: Yes
Airworthiness Certificate: Aerobatic 
Serial Number: 7-0199
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 1
Date/Type of Last Inspection: April 13, 2019 Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1150 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 920 Hrs at time of accident 
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: C91 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: AEIO-360-B4A
Registered Owner:
Rated Power: 180 Horsepower
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC) 
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KBDG,5865 ft msl 
Distance from Accident Site: 48 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 17:55 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 45°
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling:
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction:
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.3 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 9°C / -16°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Page, AZ (PGA)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Monument Valley, UT (UT25)
Type of Clearance: Unknown
Departure Time: 11:20 Local
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: Monument Valley UT25
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 5192 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry; Rough; Vegetation
Runway Used: 16 IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 4000 ft / 75 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full stop

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None 
Latitude, Longitude: 37.016666,-110.200553(est)

Dynamic Rollover: Robinson R22, N8560A; accident occurred November 04, 2019 at Smoketown Airport (S37), Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

 


Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

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

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

Smoketown Helicopters LLC


Location: Smoketown, Pennsylvania
Accident Number: GAA20CA060
Date & Time: November 4, 2019, 11:19 Local 
Registration: N8560A
Aircraft: Robinson R22 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Dynamic rollover
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

Analysis

The flight instructor reported that he lifted off in the helicopter and ascended to between about 3 and 4 ft above the grassy field north of the runway to show the student pilot how to hover, and while having positive control of the collective and antitorque pedal, he gave the cyclic control to the student. While the instructor was "guarding" the cyclic, the student applied right cyclic. Subsequently, the helicopter descended, and the right skid contacted the ground. The instructor applied left cyclic, but the helicopter dynamically rolled over. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system and horizontal stabilizer. The instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter 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 improper cyclic input while hovering and the flight instructor's delayed remedial action, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Student/instructed pilot
Personnel issues Use of equip/system - Student/instructed pilot
Personnel issues Monitoring other person - Instructor/check pilot
Aircraft (general) - Not attained/maintained

Factual Information

History of Flight

Maneuvering-hover Low altitude operation/event
Maneuvering-hover Simulated/training event
Maneuvering-hover Dynamic rollover (Defining event)
Maneuvering-hover Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial; Flight instructor 
Age: 30,Male
Airplane Rating(s): None
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter 
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Helicopter
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): Helicopter 
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 2 Without waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: February 1, 2019
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: Flight Time: (Estimated)

Student pilot Information

Certificate: None 
Age: 44,Male
Airplane Rating(s): None
Seat Occupied: Right
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: Unknown 
Last FAA Medical Exam:
Occupational Pilot: No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: (Estimated)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Robinson 
Registration: N8560A
Model/Series: R22 Alpha
Aircraft Category: Helicopter
Year of Manufacture: 1985 
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 0474
Landing Gear Type: N/A; Skid 
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: September 6, 2019 100 hour 
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 1370 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 10410.1 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: Not installed 
Engine Model/Series: O-360-B2A
Registered Owner:
Rated Power: 145 Horsepower
Operator: 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC) 
Condition of Light: Dawn
Observation Facility, Elevation: KLNS,403 ft msl 
Distance from Accident Site: 6 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 15:53 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 318°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear 
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 14 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 160°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.32 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 12°C / -1°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Smoketown, PA (S37)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Smoketown, PA (S37)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 10:00 Local
Type of Airspace: Class E

Airport Information

Airport: SMOKETOWN S37 
Runway Surface Type: Grass/turf
Airport Elevation: 370 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width:
VFR Approach/Landing: None

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: 40.041667,-76.201942(est)

Collision During Landing: Piper PA-60-700P Aerostar, N914MB: Accident occurred November 08, 2019 at Salt Lake City International Airport (KSLC), Utah




Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

Additional Participating Entity: 
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Salt Lake City, Utah

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

Medical Management Inc


Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Accident Number: GAA20CA085
Date & Time: November 7, 2019, 18:20 Local
Registration: N914MB
Aircraft: Piper PA60 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Collision during takeoff/land 
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation

Analysis

The pilot reported that, during the night landing, he landed about 10 knots faster than normal and that, while exiting the runway, he did not follow the taxi centerline guide but instead taxied right of the centerline so that he could reach the taxiway as soon as possible. He was momentarily distracted while adjusting the radio as he was attempting to leave the runway. After completing the right turn, he recaptured the taxiway centerline and parked the airplane. During his preflight inspection the next morning, he found damage to the pressurized cabin and the right propeller. Upon further examination, the pilot noted that the right propeller had struck a taxiway light, which had dislodged the light and broken off the blade tip, and that the propeller blade tip had struck the cabin. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the cabin. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot's failure to follow the taxiway centerline guide and his distraction due to adjusting the radio, which resulted in his failure to maintain clearance from a taxiway light after landing and while taxiing to a ramp. 

Findings

Environmental issues Runway/taxi/approach light - Effect on operation
Personnel issues Attention - Pilot
Personnel issues Monitoring environment - Pilot
Personnel issues Incorrect action performance - Pilot

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing Miscellaneous/other
Landing Collision during takeoff/land (Defining event)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private 
Age: 70,Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None 
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane 
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None 
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 Without waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: January 11, 2018
Occupational Pilot: No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: September 10, 2018
Flight Time: (Estimated) 4694 hours (Total, all aircraft), 390 hours (Total, this make and model), 4676 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 23 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 9 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper 
Registration: N914MB
Model/Series: PA60 700P 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1984 
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 60-8423008
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Date/Type of Last Inspection: Unknown
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 6315 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 2 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 
Engine Manufacturer:
ELT: Installed, not activated 
Engine Model/Series:
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 350 Horsepower
Operator:
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC) 
Condition of Light: Night
Observation Facility, Elevation: KSLC,4225 ft msl 
Distance from Accident Site: 1 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 23:54 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 145°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 23000 ft AGL 
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 6 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 270°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.36 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 12°C / -1°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Afton, WY (AFO) 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Salt Lake City, UT (SLC) 
Type of Clearance: Traffic advisory
Departure Time: 05:38 Local 
Type of Airspace: Class B

Airport Information

Airport: Salt Lake City Intl SLC
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 4230 ft msl
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 35
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 9596 ft / 150 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full stop;Traffic pattern

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None
Latitude, Longitude: 40.79,-111.980003(est)

Loss of Control on Ground: Cessna 180J Skywagon, N9925N; accident occurred November 08, 2019 at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport (KTYR), Smith County, Texas





Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

Additional Participating Entity: 
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Irving, Texas

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Tyler, Texas 
Accident Number: GAA20CA069
Date & Time: November 8, 2019, 12:00 Local 
Registration: N9925N
Aircraft: Cessna 180 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The pilot reported that, during takeoff, he turned the yoke to the right into the perceived quartering headwind. The tail lifted, and the right wing dipped, and he corrected by trying to lift off, but the right wheel remained on the ground. The airplane ground looped, exited the runway to the left, and nosed over. He added further that, while taking off, he misread the windsock and applied the wrong wind correction. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and vertical stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot's improper wind correction while taking off with a tailwind, which resulted in a runway excursion and subsequent nose-over.

Findings

Aircraft Directional control - Not attained/maintained
Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot
Environmental issues Tailwind - Effect on operation

Factual Information

History of Flight

Takeoff Loss of control on ground (Defining event)
Takeoff-rejected takeoff Attempted remediation/recovery
Takeoff-rejected takeoff Runway excursion
Takeoff-rejected takeoff Nose over/nose down

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 52,Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land 
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None 
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With waivers/limitations 
Last FAA Medical Exam: March 28, 2019
Occupational Pilot: No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: October 15, 2019
Flight Time: (Estimated) 107 hours (Total, all aircraft), 31 hours (Total, this make and model), 27.2 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 50 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 21 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna 
Registration: N9925N
Model/Series: 180 J
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1975 
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal 
Serial Number: 18052580
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel 
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: November 7, 2019 Annual 
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 3190 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 2795 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Continental
ELT: C126 installed, not activated 
Engine Model/Series: O-470-50
Registered Owner:
Rated Power: 230 Horsepower
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC) 
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KTYR,551 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 17:53 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 7°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 11000 ft AGL
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 9 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 10° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.37 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 9°C / -1°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Tyler, TX (TYR)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Tyler, TX (TYR)
Type of Clearance: VFR
Departure Time: 12:00 Local 
Type of Airspace: Class D

Airport Information

Airport: Tyler Pounds Rgnl TYR
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 544 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 13 
IFR  Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5200 ft / 150 ft 
VFR Approach/Landing: None

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None
Latitude, Longitude: 32.35361,-95.403053(est)

Fuel Starvation: Piper PA-32-260 Cherokee Six, N7703J; accident occurred November 09, 2019 near David Wayne Hooks Memorial Airport (KDWH), Harris 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; Houston, Texas

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

https://registry.faa.gov/N7703J

Location: Houston, Texas
Accident Number: CEN20LA018
Date & Time: November 9, 2019, 09:45 Local
Registration: N7703J
Aircraft: Piper PA32
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Fuel starvation
Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Factual Information

On November 9, 2019, about 0945 central standard time, a Piper PA-32 airplane, N7703J, lost engine power shortly after takeoff from David Wayne Hooks Memorial Airport (DWH), Houston, Texas. The pilot sustained minor injuries and the airplane sustained substantial damage. The personal flight was conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) flight plan had been filed for the flight. The local flight was originating at the time of the accident.

According to the pilot, shortly after takeoff from runway 35L the engine lost power. The pilot turned the airplane to the right, back toward the airport; due to the altitude at the time of the loss of engine power, he was unable to make it to the runway. The nose landing gear collapsed during the forced landing to a field. Both wings and the fuselage were substantially damaged.

During the airplane recovery, about 10 gallons of fuel was recovered from the left main fuel tank; the left wingtip fuel tank was impact damaged and was found empty. Both right wing fuel tanks were empty and neither tank was compromised. The fuel selector valve was selected to the right main tank.

After recovery, the engine was plumbed to an external fuel source; the engine started and ran without hesitation at various power settings. Further examination of the engine and related systems revealed that there were no mechanical anomalies that would preclude normal operations.

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline transport; Commercial; Flight instructor
Age: 61, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: Lap only
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane multi-engine; Airplane single-engine; Instrument airplane
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 1 Waiver time limited special 
Last FAA Medical Exam: September 4, 2019
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: September 16, 2019
Flight Time: 11218 hours (Total, all aircraft), 2 hours (Total, this make and model), 6388 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 164 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 48 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 0 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper 
Registration: N7703J
Model/Series: PA32 260 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1968
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 32-1070
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle 
Seats: 6
Date/Type of Last Inspection: December 4, 2018 Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 3400 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 5239.7 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: C91 installed, activated, did not aid in locating accident
Engine Model/Series: O-540-E4B5
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 260 Horsepower
Operator: On file 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KDWH
Distance from Accident Site: 25 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 08:53 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 270°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 4 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: Turbulence Severity
Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.32 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 8°C / 2°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No 
Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Houston, TX (DWH) 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Houston, TX (DWH)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 09:45 Local
Type of Airspace: Class D

Airport Information

Airport: David Wayne Hooks Memorial Air DWH
Runway Surface Type: Grass/turf
Airport Elevation: 152 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry; Vegetation
Runway Used:
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width:
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: 30.079999,-95.559997(est)

Aerodynamic Stall/Spin: Glasair Sportsman GS-2, N24EP; accident occurred November 09, 2019 near Huntsville Municipal Airport (H34), Madison 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:


Location: Huntsville, Arkansas
Accident Number: GAA20CA064
Date & Time: November 9, 2019, 09:45 Local
Registration: N24EP
Aircraft: New Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Aerodynamic stall/spin
Injuries: 1 Minor, 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll from a wet, turf runway, the airplane encountered mud and veered left. He applied aft pressure to the stick, and the airplane climbed into ground effect. The pilot pulled up and attempted to climb out of ground effect, but the airplane descended and impacted trees. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. 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 pilot's failure to maintain proper pitch control during takeoff from a muddy, turf runway and his exceedance of the airplane's critical angle of attack during the initial climb, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall. 

Findings

Aircraft Pitch control - Incorrect use/operation
Aircraft Angle of attack - Not attained/maintained
Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot
Environmental issues Wet surface - Effect on operation
Environmental issues Tree(s) - Contributed to outcome

Factual Information

History of Flight

Takeoff Aerodynamic stall/spin (Defining event)
Takeoff-rejected takeoff Nose over/nose down

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private 
Age: 57, 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: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: November 13, 2018
Occupational Pilot: No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: September 9, 2019
Flight Time: (Estimated) 711 hours (Total, all aircraft), 32 hours (Total, this make and model), 711 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 32 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 32 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 2 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: New Glasair
Registration: N24EP
Model/Series: SPORTSMAN GS-2 No Series 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2018
Amateur Built: Yes
Airworthiness Certificate: Experimental (Special) 
Serial Number: 7466
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: May 1, 2019 Condition 
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2500 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 62 Hrs at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: C126 installed, activated, did not aid in locating accident
Engine Model/Series: YIO-390-EXP
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 210 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: KASG, 1353 ft msl 
Distance from Accident Site: 18 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 15:48 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 287°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear 
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 10 knots / 15 knots 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 230°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 30.2 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 10°C / 3°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Huntsville, AR (H34)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Lakeview, AR (3M0)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 09:45 Local
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: Huntsville Muni H34
Runway Surface Type: Grass/turf
Airport Elevation: 1747 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Soft; Wet
Runway Used: 21
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 1250 ft / 60 ft 
VFR Approach/Landing: None

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 None 
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Minor, 1 None
Latitude, Longitude: 36.078056,-93.754997(est)

Loss of Engine Power (Total): Mooney M20J 201, N5765H; accident occurred November 10, 2019 near Northeast Florida Regional Airport (KSGJ), St. Augustine, St. Johns County, Florida






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; Orlando, Florida

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

Capital Sightseeing LLC


Location: St. Augustine, Florida
Accident Number: ERA20LA033
Date & Time: November 10, 2019, 09:20 Local 
Registration: N5765H
Aircraft: Mooney M20J 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of engine power (total)
Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Factual Information

On November 10, 2019, about 0920 eastern standard time, a Mooney M20J, N5765H, was substantially damaged during a forced landing in a marsh, while on approach to Northeast Florida Regional Airport (SGJ), St. Augustine, Florida. The airline transport pilot sustained minor injuries and the passenger was seriously injured. The personal flight was conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the flight that departed Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV), Gainesville, Florida, about 0820.

The pilot reported that he was repositioning the airplane from the facility that performed the annual inspection, back to his home airport. While on an extended base leg of the airport traffic pattern for runway 31, he reduced airspeed from 100 to 95 knots and then increased engine power to maintain 95 knots. At that point, the engine began to surge for several seconds, followed by a total loss of engine power. The pilot verified that the fuel boost pump was on, the mixture was rich and the fuel selector was positioned to a correct fuel tank. The pilot also checked both magnetos with no success. He then retracted the landing gear for better glide performance but realized that the airplane would not glide all the way to the runway. The pilot subsequently performed a forced landing to a marsh about 1 mile prior to the runway threshold.

Initial examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector revealed that it came to rest upright, mostly submerged in shallow water. The inspector noted damage to the right wing and empennage. Once the wreckage was recovered to shore, the inspector observed the fuel selector positioned to the right main fuel tank and about 20 gallons of 100-low-lead aviation gasoline was drained from the right main fuel tank. Water was drained from the left main fuel tank. The water had a smell of fuel, but the inspector did not observe any 100-low-lead aviation gasoline mixed with the water.

The airplane was examined again by an FAA inspector at a recovery facility. A visual inspection of the engine did not reveal any obvious defects and it exhibited corrosion due to submersion in brackish water. The fuel injector divider was opened and no fuel was found; however, a white crystalized power similar to salt was observed, consistent with the submersion in brackish water. Each individual fuel injector was removed and inspected. All the injectors exhibited evidence of the white crystalized powder and no blockages were found. The top spark plugs and ignition leads were removed and no anomalies were observed. The air filter and air box were also examined and no anomalies were observed.

The engine was subsequently examined by a National Transportation Safety Board investigator. Visual inspection of the engine and propeller did not reveal any preimpact mechanical malfunctions. The rocker arm covers were removed and no anomalies were noted. The spark plugs were removed and appeared gray in color. A lighted borescope was used to inspect the cylinders and valves, with no anomalies noted. The propeller was rotated by hand and thumb compression was established on all cylinders. The magnetos and fuel pump were corroded and could not be tested.

The four-seat, low-wing, retractable tricycle landing gear airplane was manufactured in 1984. It was powered by a Lycoming IO-360, 200-hp engine equipped with a three-blade, constant-speed, Hartzell propeller. Review of maintenance records revealed that the airplane's most recent annual inspection was completed on October 30, 2019. At that time, the airframe had accumulated 3,398.4 total hours of operation and engine had accumulated 1,610.8 hours since major overhaul. The airplane had flown about 1 hour from the time of the most recent. annual inspection, until the accident, which was the accident flight.

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline transport; Commercial 
Age: 44,Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Single-engine sea; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter 
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane; Helicopter
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane multi-engine; Airplane single-engine; Helicopter; Instrument airplane; Instrument helicopter
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 2 Without waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: July 27, 2018
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: October 17, 2019
Flight Time: 6700 hours (Total, all aircraft), 700 hours (Total, this make and model), 5580 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 112 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 74 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 0 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Mooney
Registration: N5765H
Model/Series: M20J No Series
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1984 
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 24-1480
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle 
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: October 30, 2019 Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2740 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 1 Hrs 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 3293.4 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: Installed, not activated 
Engine Model/Series: IO-360-A3B6D
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 200 Horsepower
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: SGJ,10 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 1 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 09:41 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 310°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 7 knots / Turbulence Type
Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 350° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.23 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 17°C / 13°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Gainesville, FL (GNV)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: St. Augustine, FL (SGJ) 
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 08:20 Local
Type of Airspace: Class D

Airport Information

Airport: Northeast Florida Regional SGJ
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 10 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 31 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 7997 ft / 150 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Forced landing

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 Serious 
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor
Latitude, Longitude: 29.941389,-81.317779 (est)