Sunday, February 14, 2021

Loss of Control on Ground: Orlican L-60 SF Brigadýr, N71GC; accident occurred February 21, 2020 at Frederick Municipal Airport (KFDK), Maryland









Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Baltimore, Maryland 

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Frederick, MD
Accident Number: ERA20CA107
Date & Time: 02/21/2020, 1215 EST
Registration: N71GC
Aircraft: Orlican L60
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 that he was practicing landings as part of a check-out flight. During the final approach, the airplane ballooned slightly, which the pilot attributed to a wind gust. He flared the balloon and then touched down, and the airplane began to veer left. He attempted to correct with full right rudder, right brake, and left aileron. As the airplane came to a stop on the runway, the right main landing gear buckled, and the right wing struck the runway. The airport's automated weather observation station reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was calm; however, the pilot reported that, after he egressed from the airplane, he saw that the windsock indicated a crosswind. 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 maintain airplane control during the approach, which resulted in the airplane ballooning and then veering left upon landing and the right wing impacting the runway.

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot
Aircraft (general) - Not attained/maintained
Aircraft Directional control - Not attained/maintained
Environmental issues Crosswind - Not specified

Factual Information

History of Flight

Approach-VFR pattern final Other weather encounter
Landing-landing roll Loss of control on ground (Defining event)
Landing-landing roll Attempted remediation/recovery
Landing-landing roll Landing gear collapse

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 57, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed:No 
Medical Certification: Class 3 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 09/20/2010
Occupational Pilot:No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 12/04/2019
Flight Time:  1024 hours (Total, all aircraft), 1 hours (Total, this make and model), 1003 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 10 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 4 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 1 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Orlican
Registration: N71GC
Model/Series: L60 SF
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture:1958 
Amateur Built:No 
Airworthiness Certificate: Experimental
Serial Number: 150827
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 12/17/2019, Condition
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 3492 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 3925 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Walter
ELT: C91A installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: M462RF
Registered Owner: Deutsch American Trading Llc
Rated Power: 315 hp
Operator: Deutsch American Trading Llc
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: FDK, 303 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1223 EST
Direction from Accident Site: 266°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: Calm /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:
Wind Direction:
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:
Altimeter Setting: 30.55 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 1°C / -13°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Frederick, MD (FDK)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Frederick, MD (FDK)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1145 EST
Type of Airspace: Class D

Airport Information

Airport: Frederick Muni (FDK)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 306 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 05
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5219 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Touch and Go

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: 39.417500, -77.374167 (est)

Loss of Control on Ground: Air Tractor AT-602, N602BK; accident occurred February 22, 2020 in Bunkie, Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana





Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

Additional Participating Entity: 

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Baton Rouge, Louisiana 

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Bunkie, LA
Accident Number: CEN20CA103
Date & Time: 02/22/2020, 1520 CST
Registration: N602BK
Aircraft: Air Tractor AT 602
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Positioning

Analysis

The pilot reported that he was performing a straight-in approach and landing. The airplane touched down on the runway centerline, and it was under control. After the tailwheel settled onto the runway, the pilot applied the brakes and retarded the engine power to the beta range. Shortly after, the airplane began to swerve left. The pilot's efforts to maintain directional control were unsuccessful, and the airplane departed the left side of the runway, encountered soft ground, and ground looped. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, right wing, and vertical stabilizer. The pilot noted that he did not ensure that the tailwheel lock was engaged before landing.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot's failure to lock the tailwheel before landing, which resulted in his loss of directional control during the landing roll, a runway excursion onto soft ground, and a subsequent ground loop.

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot
Personnel issues Lack of action - Pilot
Aircraft Directional control - Not attained/maintained
Environmental issues Soft surface - Effect on operation

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing Loss of control on ground (Defining event)
Landing Attempted remediation/recovery
Landing Runway excursion

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline Transport; Commercial
Age: 55, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Single
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter
Restraint Used:
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 2 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 04/14/2019
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 03/16/2019
Flight Time:   (Estimated) 16964 hours (Total, all aircraft), 505 hours (Total, this make and model), 15479 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 21 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 9 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 2 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Air Tractor
Registration: N602BK
Model/Series: AT 602 No Series
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2005
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Restricted
Serial Number: 602-1128
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 1
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 02/22/2020, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 12500 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Turbo Prop
Airframe Total Time: 8966.6 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Pratt & Whitney
ELT: Not installed
Engine Model/Series: PT6A-60AG
Registered Owner: Bunkie Flying Service Inc
Rated Power: 1050 hp
Operator: Bunkie Flying Service Inc
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Agricultural Aircraft (137)

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KOPL, 76 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 23 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 2015 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 169°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: Calm /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:
Wind Direction:
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:
Altimeter Setting: 30.37 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 13°C / 0°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Iota, LA
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Bunkie, LA (2LA4)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1505 CST
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: Bunkie Flying Service (2LA4)
Runway Surface Type: Concrete; Grass/turf
Airport Elevation: 65 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 35
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5000 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Straight-in

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None
Latitude, Longitude: 30.929167, -92.179167 (est)

In Memoriam: William Joseph Rodway

William Joseph Rodway
July 13, 1951 ~ January 16, 2021 (age 69)




Lieutenant Colonel William Joseph Rodway


Lieutenant Colonel William (Bill) Joseph Rodway, a retired Delta Airlines Captain, retired New Mexico Air National Guard/USAF and resident of Albuquerque, New Mexico took his last solo flight to heaven on January 16, 2021.

He was born on July 13, 1951 to the late William and Edythe Rodway in White Plains, New York.  He is survived by the love of his life of 23 years and “co-pilot,” Lorena Zubia-Foust; her children, Matthew Foust, Heather Foust, April Gallagher and son-in-law, Tom Gallagher; two granddaughters, Lorelai Gallagher and London Gallagher; two brothers, Robert Rodway and David Rodway; and niece, Indira Rodway.

Bill graduated from the University of Northern Colorado in 1973 with a degree in Science and Psychology and his weekends were fulfilled with flying lessons. While in college he saw a billboard that read “Fly for free, Join the Navy!” and quickly pursued that dream. For those of you who knew Bill, you know that the Navy had him at the word “free!” During his 8-year naval aviator career, he remarkably made over 300-night time carrier landings in an A-7 light attack jet. While stationed in Japan, his most memorable flights were off the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier, which is now a museum in San Diego, CA.

After leaving the Navy, Bill was hired by Delta Airlines as a commercial pilot in 1979. He flew the Boeing 737 and advanced rapidly as an airman check pilot. Bill retired as a Captain in 2005 and enjoyed his last years flying the Boeing 767. One of his favorite places to fly into was Jackson Hole, WY. Simultaneously, while working for Delta, Bill joined the New Mexico Air National Guard for the next 15 years and flew with the “Tacos.” He enjoyed the New Mexico blue skies and speed from the cockpit of the F-16 FALCON fighter jet. As if retiring from the USAF as a Lt. Colonel wasn’t enough, he pushed his capabilities for a little “extreme” adventure in aerobatic flying. We’re talking about pilots who like to be upside down, sideways and pulling G’s while perfecting precise routines in a 3-Dimensional “box” of airspace. Bill had the need for speed! Bill’s passion for flying was more than just a career and always quoted, “Find a career you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life!”

Bill knew how to have fun! As a member of the New Mexico Viper Club, driving at high speeds in his 2004 yellow Dodge Viper, he knew how to set an adrenaline rush on the long stretchy roads and winding mountains! There was always a good story to tell. One of the best stories was when 15 exotic cars were pulled over by two law enforcement officers in Montrose, CO, long story! Bill being a man of service and having the most upright respect for law enforcement, volunteered as a Bernalillo County Sheriff Reserve Deputy for 10 years. Within the first year, he received the “Outstanding Cadet” award and was President of the Reserves for a term during his service with BCSO.

Bill was an excellent family man and provider, listener, and workout partner (he was a member of Defined Fitness for years and won a couple of bodybuilding competitions). He was adventurous in many sport arenas, courageous, knowledgeable and most of all, lovable. He had the rare combination of someone who loved life and had a firm understanding of what was important - the simplicity of living life with those you love.

One of the best qualities that Bill had was mentoring people and helping them achieve their goals. He always made people feel as if they were the most important person in the room. He was an animated storyteller and had memorable and funny stories to share. Bill was always inclined to learn new things and mastered them quickly. He was extremely accomplished, yet humble.

Bill had a larger-than-life presence and personality. He loved spending quality time with his granddaughters and he always looked forward to picking them up from one of his 5-Star daycares. Their favorite places to go were the library and airport. He also loved spending time with his 4 Shih Tzu’s who adored him and listened to his every command.

This past year Bill and Lorena spent hours flying in their baby blue Cirrus SR22T aircraft throughout the Southwest. A recent accomplishment was flying into the North America’s highest airport in Leadville, CO at 9,934 feet. Bill loved making memorable moments for those who flew in his plane.

Bill was an all-American man. Words cannot describe how much Bill will be missed by his family and an abundant amount of loving friends! Even though his passing was unexpected, he will be fondly remembered for his leadership, tenacity, patience, and kind heart.

This coming March, Bill was going to start his volunteer efforts for the Barkhouse organization flying his Cirrus Vision Jet plane to escort dogs and finding good homes for them. The family asks in lieu of flowers, you make a donation to the “animal rescue freedom flight” in Bill’s honor at https://www.barkhouse.org/donate  or you can send a check to: Barkhouse.Org., 4670 Calle de Nubes, Las Cruces, NM 88012.

Bill’s Celebration of Life will be held privately.

Runway Excursion: Learjet 55, N135LR; accident occurred February 25, 2020 at Monmouth Executive Airport (KBLM), Farmingdale, New Jersey

 



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)









Air Tractor AT-602, N5197Y: Accident occurred February 25, 2020 in Dumas, Desha County, Arkansas











Aviation Accident Factual Report - National Transportation Safety Board
 

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

Additional Participating Entities:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Little Rock, Arkansas
Air Tractor; Olney, Texas
Transportation Safety Board of Canada; Gatineau 
Pratt & Whitney Canada; Longueuil 

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Dumas, Arkansas 
Accident Number: CEN20LA109
Date & Time: February 25, 2020, 10:30 Local 
Registration: N5197Y
Aircraft: Air Tractor AT 602 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Miscellaneous/other
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 137: Agricultural

Factual Information

On February 25, 2020, about 1030 central standard time, an Air Tractor AT-602, N5197Y, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Dumas, Arkansas. The commercial pilot was not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 aerial application flight.

The pilot reported that after the completion of a low-level aerial application operation over a field, he executed a trim pass on the north side of the field with about 495 gallons (about 4,133 lbs) of product in the hopper. While flying from west to east, between "160 to 180" mph, the five-blade metal propeller impacted a galvanized metal bracket attached to the top of a 35 ft tall wooden power line pole. The bracket was about one ft wide and two ft long. One of the propeller blades separated about midspan from the impact. After the impact, there were "extreme" vibrations throughout the engine and airframe, and oil from the engine coated the front three windshield panels. The pilot attempted to clear the oil with the windshield wiper system with no avail.

The pilot maneuvered the airplane to perform an emergency landing to an east to west oriented dirt road, about a half mile north of where the wooden power line was located. The hopper load was not dumped before the landing. Due to the reduced visibility, the pilot landed while looking out the left window. Both wings impacted the ground during the landing sequence and the airplane came to rest over a ditch. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the rudder.

The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe and engine that would have precluded normal operation. While the wooded power line pole was previously identified by the pilot, the pilot reported that he did not know about, nor did he see the metal bracket attached to the top of the wooden power line pole. The pilot further reported that he did not feel the glare of the sun, which was positioned 39° above the horizon and at an azimuth of 143°, was a factor in the accident.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved Air Tractor AT-602 Airplane Flying Manual (AFM) discusses general procedures for low-level aerial application flights, however the AFM does not contain guidance regarding post-obstacle strike actions (obstacles such as those commonly encountered in low-level aerial application flights such as a wire, pole, tower, or tree) and emergency hopper dump guidance, nor is such guidance required.

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial 
Age: 53,Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Single
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter 
Restraint Used: 4-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: February 12, 2020
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: March 30, 2018
Flight Time: 7867 hours (Total, all aircraft), 2887 hours (Total, this make and model), 7842 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 37.2 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 37.2 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 8 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Air Tractor
Registration: N5197Y
Model/Series: AT 602 No Series 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1999 
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Restricted (Special) 
Serial Number: 602-0529
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 1
Date/Type of Last Inspection: December 29, 2019
Annual Certified Max Gross Wt.: 12500 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Turbo prop
Airframe Total Time: 10051 Hrs at time of accident 
Engine Manufacturer: Pratt & Whitney Canada
ELT: Not installed 
Engine Model/Series: PT6A-60AG
Registered Owner:
Rated Power: 1050 Horsepower
Operator: 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Agricultural aircraft (137)
Operator Does Business As: Moss Flying Service 
Operator Designator Code:

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC) 
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KLLQ,270 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 18 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 16:25 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 219°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Scattered / 2600 ft AGL
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling:
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 5 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 280° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 29.9 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 13°C / 6°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Tillar, AR (None)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Tillar, AR (None)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 
Type of Airspace: Class G

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: 33.869998,-91.526947(est)

Loss of Control in Flight: Cessna 172P Skyhawk, N291RP; accident occurred February 26, 2020 at Everglades Airpark (X01), Everglades City, Collier County, Florida





Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board 

Additional Participating Entity: 
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Miramar, Florida

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Everglades City, Florida
Accident Number: ERA20CA114
Date & Time: February 26, 2020, 13:55 Local
Registration: N291RP
Aircraft: Cessna 172 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight
Injuries: 4 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

According to the pilot, while on final approach to the runway and about 3 to 4 ft above ground level, the airplane encountered a "strong gust cross wind" from the right, which resulted in the left wing striking the runway and sustaining substantial damage. The pilot reduced engine power and landed the airplane without further incident. 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 airplane control during the landing flare in gusting crosswind conditions, which resulted in the left wing striking the runway.

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot
Aircraft (general) - Not attained/maintained
Environmental issues Gusts - Effect on operation
Environmental issues Crosswind - Effect on operation

Factual Information

History of Flight

Approach-VFR pattern final Other weather encounter
Landing-flare/touchdown Loss of control in flight (Defining event)
Landing-flare/touchdown Dragged wing/rotor/float/other

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial; Private Age: 59,Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter Restraint Used: 3-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:
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: November 23, 2019
Flight Time: 7498 hours (Total, all aircraft), 256 hours (Total, this make and model), 143 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 55 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 1 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna
Registration: N291RP
Model/Series: 172 P 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1981 
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 17274327
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle 
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: November 28, 2019 100 hour 
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2400 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 11202.7 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: C126 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: O-320-D2J
Registered Owner:
Rated Power: 160 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: MKY, 5 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 18 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 13:56 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 300°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 1400 ft AGL 
Visibility 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 8500 ft AGL 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 13 knots / 17 knots 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 190° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 29.93 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point:
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Miami, FL (TMB)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Everglades City, FL (X01)
Type of Clearance: VFR
Departure Time: 12:30 Local 
Type of Airspace:

Airport Information

Airport: Everglades Airpark X01
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 5 ft msl
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 15
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 2400 ft / 50 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full stop

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 3 None 
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 4 None
Latitude, Longitude: 25.849166,-81.390556(est)

Loss of Control in Flight: Cessna 172L Skyhawk, N7904G; accident occurred February 27, 2020 at Dubois Municipal Airport (U41), Clark County, Idaho







Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board 

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Boise, Idaho

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Dubois, ID
Accident Number: WPR20CA095
Date & Time: 02/27/2020, 0915 MST
Registration: N7904G
Aircraft: Cessna 172
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Instructional 

Analysis

The flight instructor reported that, during the instructional flight, the student was making a low pass over the snow-covered runway when the airplane encountered a downdraft that decreased the airspeed and increased the descent rate. The instructor reported that he was too relaxed and should have added power at that moment but didn't. The wheels contacted the snow, and the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings. The instructor 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 student pilot's failure to maintain a proper airspeed and descent rate while conducting a low pass over a snow-covered runway after encountering a downdraft and the flight instructor's delayed action, which resulted in the wheels contacting the snow and the airplane nosing over. 

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Student/instructed pilot
Personnel issues Delayed action - Instructor/check pilot
Aircraft Airspeed - Not attained/maintained
Aircraft Descent rate - Not attained/maintained
Environmental issues Downdraft - Effect on operation

Factual Information

History of Flight

Maneuvering-low-alt flying Other weather encounter
Maneuvering-low-alt flying Loss of control in flight (Defining event)
Maneuvering-low-alt flying Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Flight Instructor; Commercial
Age: 26, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Right
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane Single-engine
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 1 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 10/04/2018
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 06/23/2019
Flight Time:  715 hours (Total, all aircraft), 254 hours (Total, this make and model), 622 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 130 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 39 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 3 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Student Pilot Information

Certificate: Student
Age: 26, Male
Airplane Rating(s): None
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 07/09/2019
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:  53 hours (Total, all aircraft), 52 hours (Total, this make and model), 9 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 10 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 9 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 1 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna
Registration: N7904G
Model/Series: 172 L
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture:1970 
Amateur Built:No 
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 17259604
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 02/01/2020, 100 Hour
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2299 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 5262 Hours at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: C126 installed, activated, did not aid in locating accident
Engine Model/Series: O-320 SERIES
Registered Owner: Right Rudder LLC
Rated Power: 150 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KRXE, 4862 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 27 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 0905 MST
Direction from Accident Site: 138°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: Light and Variable /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: Variable
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.03 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: -16°C / -13°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Rexburg, ID (RXE)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Rexburg, ID (RXE)
Type of Clearance:None 
Departure Time: 0827 MST
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: Dubois Muni (U41)
Runway Surface Type: Dirt; Snow
Airport Elevation: 5123 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Snow
Runway Used: 16
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 4600 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Traffic Pattern

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None
Latitude, Longitude: 44.162222, -112.220556 (est)