Sunday, June 20, 2021

Collision with Terrain (non-CFIT): Air Tractor AT-502B, N8523Z; accident occurred June 20, 2021 in Edwardsburg, Cass County, Michigan





Aviation Accident Final 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; Grand Rapids, Michigan 

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

Lutes Flying Service Inc 


Location: Edwardsburg, Michigan 
Accident Number: CEN21LA283
Date and Time: June 20, 2021, 13:37 Local 
Registration: N8523Z
Aircraft: AIR TRACTOR INC AT-502B 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) 
Injuries: 1 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 137: Agricultural

Analysis

The pilot reported that while conducting an aerial application pass over a field, the airplane stuck trees and subsequently impacted the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations. The pilot reported that the field had rising terrain toward its southern edge and as the airplane approached the southern edge, the airplane was unable to climb above the rising terrain. It is likely the pilot failed to identify the rising terrain in time to clear the trees.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot’s failure to identify rising terrain and to maintain terrain clearance from trees during an aerial application pass that resulted in an in-flight collision with trees and terrain.

Findings

Personnel issues Identification/recognition - Pilot
Aircraft Altitude - Not attained/maintained
Environmental issues Sloped/uneven terrain - Contributed to outcome

Factual Information

History of Flight

Maneuvering-low-alt flying Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) (Defining event)
Uncontrolled descent Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline transport; Commercial; Flight engineer
Age: 66, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Single-engine sea; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Single
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None 
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: Class 2 With waivers/limitations 
Last FAA Medical Exam: March 19, 2021
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: March 19, 2021
Flight Time: 27100 hours (Total, all aircraft), 950 hours (Total, this make and model), 18400 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 50 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 40 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 4 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: AIR TRACTOR INC 
Registration: N8523Z
Model/Series: AT-502B 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2005 
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Restricted (Special) 
Serial Number: 502B-2577
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel 
Seats: 1
Date/Type of Last Inspection: May 3, 2021 Annual 
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 8000 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 5774 Hrs
Engines: 1 Turbo prop
Airframe Total Time: as of last inspection 
Engine Manufacturer: Pratt & Whitney
ELT: Not installed 
Engine Model/Series: PT6A-34AG
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 750
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: EKM 
Distance from Accident Site: 9 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 13:52 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 326°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 8 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 250°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 29.72 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 28°C / 21°C
Precipitation and Obscuration:
Departure Point: Elkhart, IN (EKM) 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Elkhart, IN (EKM)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 13:30 Local
Type of Airspace: Class G

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Serious
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Serious
Latitude, Longitude: 41.7956,86.0808(est)




CASS COUNTY, Michigan -- Cass County Sheriff Richard J. Behnke reported at approximately 1:37 p.m. on Sunday that a small aircraft crashed in Edwardsburg.

Police say they responded to the crash near the 27000 block of Indigan Lane.

The pilot, 68-year-old Ralph Edward Lutes of Shipshewana, was transported to an Elkhart hospital, police say.

Police report that the plane was crop dusting a potato farm with fungicide before crashing into a wooded area.

The extent of injuries sustained by Lutes is currently unknown.  

This crash is still under investigation by the FAA.

SkyStar Kitfox Series 6, N617Y: Fatal accident occurred June 20, 2021 in Likely, Modoc County, California

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

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


Location: Likely, CA
Accident Number: WPR21FA232
Date & Time: June 20, 2021, 09:00 Local 
Registration: N617Y
Aircraft: Kitfox Series 6
Injuries: 1 Fatal, 1 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On June 20, 2021, about 0900 Pacific daylight time, a Kitfox Series 6 airplane, N617Y, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Likely, California. The pilot was seriously injured, and the passenger sustained fatal injuries. The airplane was operated under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.

Witnesses located near the accident site reported that they had spoken to the pilot and passenger about 10 minutes prior to the accident. Following their conversation, they watched the pilot and passenger board the airplane. The witnesses stated that the pilot attempted to takeoff from the field on a westerly heading, however, appeared that they could not get enough speed. The witnesses heard the engine throttle down and watched the airplane turn around 180° and initiate a second attempt to takeoff. The witnesses stated that the airplane had become airborne about 20 yards from the canal road and had climbed to about 10 to 20 ft above the ground. As the airplane approached the canal, it began to descend and impacted the upper eastern edge of the canal, spun around, and slid down into the water.

Examination of the accident site revealed that the airplane impacted the eastern edge of an irrigation levy as seen in figure 1. Debris remained within about 5 ft of the main wreckage. The fuselage came to rest upright on a magnetic heading of about 243° magnetic, with the engine and left wing partially submerged within water. A ground impression consistent with the size of a tire was observed about 4 ft north of the main wreckage. 



Examination of the field the airplane was departing from revealed flattened grass, consistent with tire tracks, extended from the western edge of the field toward the canal. The length of the field from the western edge to the eastern edge was about 1,151 ft as noted in figure 2. The field featured rough terrain, with vegetation about 2 to 3 ft in height as seen in figure 3.




Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Kitfox 
Registration: N617Y
Model/Series: Series 6
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: Yes
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: KSVE,4149 ft msl 
Observation Time: 08:55 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 52 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 26°C /3°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: / ,
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility: 10 miles
Altimeter Setting: 30.03 inches Hg 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Likely, CA
Destination: Alturas, CA 

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Serious
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries:
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Fatal, 1 Serious 
Latitude, Longitude: 41.249255,-120.53129

Those who may have information that might be relevant to the National Transportation Safety Board investigation may contact them by email witness@ntsb.gov, and any friends and family who want to contact investigators about the accident should email assistance@ntsb.gov.  You can also call the NTSB Response Operations Center at 844-373-9922 or 202-314-6290. 

Frank Randall Bethel
01/11/1956 - 06/20/2021

Frank "Randy" Bethel was born to Frank and Leta Bethel on January 11th 1956. He passed away on June 20th 2021 at the age of 65.

Randy was well known and loved. He was in the propane and HVAC businesses and was often seen happily talking to people.

He is survived by His Wife Jennifer, his children Daniel and Joey Bethel, his brother Wayne and his mother Leta.

Services are pending at this time.

LIKELY, California - The man who died in a plane crash in Modoc County on Sunday was identified, according to the Modoc County Sheriff's Office.

65-year-old Frank Randell Bethel died in the SkyStar Kitfox Series 6 crash that happened just after 9 a.m. Sunday.

Tim Harris, 65, was the pilot and was taken to the hospital with serious injuries. He is in stable condition.

The crash is under investigation. 




LIKELY, California – One Modoc County man is dead and another injured after a plane crash Sunday morning near a ranch in Likely, California.

The Modoc County Sheriff’s Office said at 9:08 a.m. their dispatch received a report of the crash of a small aircraft.

Deputies say the plane was seen taking off from a field at the ranch, but a witness said it appeared the plane was unable to get a high enough altitude and then crashed.

A 65-year-old man from Modoc County died in the crash. Next of kin have been notified but authorities have not yet released the man’s identity.

The pilot was also a 65-year old man from Modoc County. The Alturas resident was flown to Redding for medical treatment of “major injuries.” He has not been identified by authorities at this time.

The Modoc County Sheriff’s Office said they are working with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on an investigation into the cause of the plane crash.

Multiple agencies responded to the deadly crash on Sunday morning including the Modoc County Sheriff’s office, the Likely Fire Department, SEMSA Air, Modoc Medical Center EMS, CAL FIRE, BLM Fire, and the California Highway Patrol.



One man was killed and another was hospitalized after a plane crashed in Modoc County on Sunday morning.

The 65-year-old was apparently a passenger in a plane that was taking off from a ranch in Likely, a town that is about 15 miles south of Alturas on Highway 395, according to the Modoc County Sheriff's Office.

The pilot, another 65-year-old man, also was injured in the crash, according to the sheriff's office. He was flown for treatment to Mercy Medical Center in Redding, officials said.

The sheriff's office did not provide the names of the two men on the plane.

A witness who reported the crash said the plane was taking off shortly after 9 a.m. and "failed to get altitude," according to the sheriff's office.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash, officials said.

Loss of Control in Flight: Beechcraft A36 Bonanza, N6150X; fatal accident occurred June 20, 2019 in Elida, Allen County, Ohio

Steven Douglas Niemann

Tracey Hartnett











Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board

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

Additional Participating Entities: 
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Columbus, Ohio
Textron Aviation; Wichita, Kansas
Continental Aerospace Technologies; Mobile, Alabama

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Elida, Ohio 
Accident Number: CEN19FA177
Date & Time: June 20, 2019, 16:12 Local
Registration: N6150X
Aircraft: Beech A36
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight
Injuries: 2 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The noninstrument-rated private pilot and passenger departed on the cross-county flight under visual flight rules (VFR) in visual meteorological conditions and proceeded on course at an altitude of about 9,000 ft mean sea level (msl). As the flight progressed, the weather conditions deteriorated, and about halfway through the flight, the pilot appeared to deviate before resuming flight toward the destination and descended to about 2,000 ft msl over about 30 minutes. Within 20 miles of the accident site, the pilot executed multiple course changes, including two 360° turns. The airplane then entered a right turn from a southeasterly course to a southwesterly course, and about 1 minute before the accident, the airplane re-entered the right turn, which progressed into a right graveyard spiral that continued until impact.

Weather observations and satellite imagery indicated that instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) prevailed in the vicinity of where the pilot began making the multiple course changes and at the accident site. It is likely that the pilot encountered rain, and possibly heavy rain, during the final portion of the flight. There was no record of the pilot obtaining a preflight weather briefing from an official source.

Examinations of the airframe and engine did not reveal any anomalies consistent with a preimpact failure or malfunction.

Toxicology testing of the pilot revealed the presence of carboxy-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an inactive metabolite of THC. The low-level presence of the inactive THC metabolite suggests that the pilot was not under the influence of THC at the time of the flight, and therefore, it is unlikely that any effects from the pilot's prior use contributed to the accident. The testing also revealed the presence of diphenhydramine; however, it did not provide a blood level. Therefore, whether the pilot might have been impaired from the diphenhydramine at the time of the accident or whether his prior use contributed to the accident could not be determined.

The restricted visibility conditions present in the area were conducive to the development of spatial disorientation, and the airplane's maneuvering and spiraling descent are consistent with the known effects of spatial disorientation. It is likely that the pilot experienced spatial disorientation during an encounter with instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in a loss of control.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The noninstrument-rated pilot's decision to continue visual flight rules flight into an area of instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in a loss of control due to spatial disorientation. Contributing was the pilot not obtaining a weather briefing prior to the flight.

Findings

Personnel issues Spatial disorientation - Pilot
Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot
Personnel issues Decision making/judgment - Pilot
Personnel issues Qualification/certification - Pilot
Personnel issues Weather planning - Pilot
Environmental issues Below VFR minima - Decision related to condition
Environmental issues Below VFR minima - Effect on operation

Factual Information

History of Flight

Enroute VFR encounter with IMC
Enroute Loss of control in flight (Defining event)
Uncontrolled descent Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

On June 20, 2019, at 1612 eastern daylight time, a Beech A36 airplane, N6150X, was destroyed when it was involved in an accident near Elida, Ohio. The private pilot and passenger were fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot departed Maquoketa Municipal Airport (OQW), Maquoketa, Iowa, about 1255 and was destined for Toledo Executive Airport (TDZ), Toledo, Ohio. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed near OQW about the time of departure and weather information indicated that the initial portion of the flight was conducted in visual meteorological conditions. However, weather conditions deteriorated as the flight progressed. Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B position data indicated that the airplane climbed to an altitude of about 9,000 ft mean sea level (msl) and proceeded southeast before turning east and transitioning south of the Chicago, Illinois, metropolitan area while maintaining 9,000 ft msl. The pilot subsequently returned to a southeasterly course until nearing Logansport, Indiana, when he again took up an easterly course and transitioned south of Ft. Wayne, Indiana. During this time, the airplane began a gradual descent over the next 30 minutes eventually leveling at 2,000 ft. msl. The track data depicted multiple course changes, including two 360° turns within 20 miles of the accident site. About 1610:45, the airplane entered a right turn, changing its course from southeasterly to southwesterly over about 30 seconds. About 1611:15, the airplane entered a second right turn, which transitioned into a right descending spiral until the final data point at 1612:14. At that time, the airplane was located about 1/4 mile north-northwest of the accident site at an altitude of 2,110 ft msl, which was about 1,330 ft above ground level (agl).

At 1647, a local resident saw the wreckage in an agricultural field and contacted authorities. There were no known witnesses to the accident.

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private 
Age: 65, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Single-engine sea
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: Yes
Medical Certification: BasicMed
Last FAA Medical Exam: May 29, 2017
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: March 11, 2019
Flight Time: 1640 hours (Total, all aircraft)

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records indicated that the pilot did not hold, nor had he ever applied for an instrument rating. His application for the addition of a seaplane rating, dated March 15, 2017, indicated a total instrument flight time of 1.0 hours. The pilot's logbook was not available during the investigation; however, a copy of the pilot's flight review endorsement was provided after the initial factual report was released.. The investigation was not able to determine if the pilot had completed any instrument training after issuance of his private pilot certificate.

The pilot did not hold a current medical certificate; however, he had applied for BasicMed. He completed the BasicMed course on May 29, 2017, and his Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist was completed on May 15, 2017. The pilot was medically eligible to fly as long he had a valid driver's license and was in compliance with 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 68, Requirements for operating small aircraft without a medical certificate.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Beech
Registration: N6150X
Model/Series: A36 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1981 
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Utility
Serial Number: E-1961
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Seats: 6
Date/Type of Last Inspection: June 14, 2019 Annual 
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 3651 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 2801.1 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Continental
ELT: C91 installed, activated, did not aid in locating accident
Engine Model/Series: IO-550-B
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 300 Horsepower
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Instrument (IMC)
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: AOH,975 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 10 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 15:53 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 145°
Lowest Cloud Condition: 
Visibility: 6 miles
Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 800 ft AGL
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 18 knots / 28 knots 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 250° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 29.57 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 19°C / 18°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: N/A - None - Mist
Departure Point: Maquoketa, IA (OQW) 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Toledo, OH (TDZ) 
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 12:55 Local
Type of Airspace: Class G

There was no record that the pilot obtained an official preflight weather briefing or that he had requested any weather information during the flight.

At 1555, conditions at the Putnam County Airport (OWX), Ottawa, Ohio, about 14 miles north-northeast of the accident location, included scattered clouds at 600 ft agl, broken clouds at 1,700 ft agl, and 5 miles visibility. At 1555, conditions at the Van Wert County Airport (VNW), Van Wert, Ohio, about 20 miles west of the accident site, included broken clouds at 500 ft agl, overcast clouds at 1,000 ft agl, and 2 miles visibility in rain.

Satellite imagery depicted cloudy conditions across the region. Overcast clouds prevailed near the accident site, with cloud tops above 10,000 ft msl and localized build-ups to about 30,000 ft msl. The presence of any intervening cloud layers was not known. Radar imagery depicted light to heavy precipitation across the region. The accident occurred as the airplane approached an area of moderate to heavy perception.

An AIRMET warning of instrument conditions was in effect at the time of the accident.

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries: 1 Fatal 
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude: 40.846389,-84.158332

The accident site was located in an agricultural field. The debris field extended about 117 ft north northeast of the main wreckage. The airplane came to rest upright on a northwest heading. The engine was separated from the airframe and located in position immediately adjacent to the fuselage. The left wing was partially separated from the fuselage, bent forward 90o, and located resting against the forward fuselage. The right wing and empennage remained attached to the fuselage. The control surfaces remained attached to the airframe.

Examination of the airframe and engine did not reveal any anomalies consistent with a preimpact failure or malfunction. A detailed summary of the accident site and the postaccident examinations is available in the public docket.

Additional Information

Spatial Disorientation

The FAA Civil Aeromedical Institute's publication, "Introduction to Aviation Physiology," defines spatial disorientation as a loss of proper bearings or a state of mental confusion as to position, location, or movement relative to the position of the earth. Factors contributing to spatial disorientation include changes in acceleration, flight in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), frequent transfer between VMC and IMC, and unperceived changes in aircraft attitude.

The FAA Airplane Flying Handbook describes some hazards associated with flying when the ground or horizon are obscured. The handbook states, in part:

The vestibular sense (motion sensing by the inner ear) in particular tends to confuse the pilot. Because of inertia, the sensory areas of the inner ear cannot detect slight changes in the attitude of the airplane, nor can they accurately sense attitude changes that occur at a uniform rate over a period of time. On the other hand, false sensations are often generated; leading the pilot to believe the attitude of the airplane has changed when in fact, it has not. These false sensations result in the pilot experiencing spatial disorientation.

The FAA Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge provides information concerning spatial disorientation and vestibular illusions. Regarding the "graveyard spiral" illusion, it states:

A pilot in a prolonged coordinated, constant-rate turn may experience the illusion of not turning. During recovery to level flight, the pilot will then experience the sensation of turning in the opposite direction causing the disoriented pilot to return the aircraft to its original turn. Because an aircraft tends to lose altitude in turns unless the pilot compensates for the loss of lift, the pilot may notice a loss of altitude.

The absence of any sensation of turning created the illusion of being in a level descent. The pilot may pull back on the control sin an attempt to climb or stop the descent. This action tightens the spiral and increase the loss of altitude; this illusion is referred to as a "graveyard spiral." This may lead to a loss of aircraft control.

Medical and Pathological Information

An autopsy of the pilot conducted by the Lucas County Coroner's Office, Toledo, Ohio, attributed his death to multiple blunt traumatic injuries sustained in the accident. Toxicology testing was performed by the FAA Forensic Sciences Laboratory. The testing detected 2.2 (ng/mL, ng-g) carboxy-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cavity blood and 16.5 (ng/mL, ng/g) in liver tissue; diphenhydramine in muscle and liver tissue; and rosuvastatin in muscle and liver tissue. No ethanol and no carboxyhemoglobin were detected in cavity blood.

Carboxy-delta-9-THC is an inactive metabolite of THC. Although THC itself is the primary psychoactive component in marijuana and is considered to be impairing, the inactive metabolite, carboxy-delta-9-THC, is not considered to be impairing. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine available as an over-the-counter medication commonly used to treat allergy symptoms and as a sleep aid. Due to
its sedating effects, it is considered to be impairing. Rosuvastatin is a cholesterol lowering medication available by prescription and is not considered to be impairing.

Preventing Similar Accidents

Reduced Visual References Require Vigilance

About two-thirds of general aviation accidents that occur in reduced visibility weather conditions are fatal. The accidents can involve pilot spatial disorientation or controlled flight into terrain. Even in visual weather conditions, flights at night over areas with limited ground lighting (which provides few visual ground references) can be challenging.

Preflight weather briefings are critical to safe flight. In-flight, weather information can also help pilots make decisions, as can in-cockpit weather equipment that can supplement official information. Incockpit equipment requires an understanding of the features and limitations.

We often see pilots who decide to turn back after they have already encountered weather; that is too late. Pilot's shouldn't allow a situation to become dangerous before deciding to act. Additionally, air traffic controllers are there to help; be honest with them about your situation and ask for help.

Even when flying at night, visual weather conditions can also be challenging. Remote areas with limited ground lighting provide limited visual reference cues for pilots, which can be disorienting or render rising terrain visually imperceptible. Topographic references can help pilots become more familiar with the terrain. The use of instruments, if pilots are proficient, can also help pilots navigate these challenging areas.

See http://www.ntsb.gov/safety/safety-alerts/documents/SA_020.pdf for additional resources.

The NTSB presents this information to prevent recurrence of similar accidents. Note that this should not be considered guidance from the regulator, nor does this supersede existing FAA Regulations (FARs). 







Nose Down: Cessna 180B, N9130T; accident occurred June 20, 2018 at Norman Grier Field Airport (S36), Kent, King County, Washington

 







Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board 

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Seattle, Washington

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:


Location: Kent, WA
Accident Number: GAA18CA373
Date & Time: 06/20/2018, 1200 PDT
Registration: N9130T
Aircraft: CESSNA 180 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Nose over/nose down
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Instructional

Analysis 

The pilot reported that, after touchdown, he applied "too much brake," and the tailwheel-equipped airplane came to rest in a nose-down position, the propeller struck the ground, and the airplane then came to rest vertically on its nose and right wingtip.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.

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 use of excessive braking during the landing roll, which resulted in the airplane coming to rest nose down. 

Findings

Aircraft Landing gear brakes system - Incorrect use/operation
Personnel issues Use of equip/system - Pilot
Aircraft Surface speed/braking - Incorrect use/operation

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing-landing roll Miscellaneous/other
Landing-landing roll Loss of control on ground
Landing-landing roll Nose over/nose down (Defining event)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 68, 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: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 07/19/2017
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 11/25/2017
Flight Time:  (Estimated) 1171 hours (Total, all aircraft), 10 hours (Total, this make and model), 1048 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 16 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 9 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Flight Instructor Information

Certificate: Flight Instructor; Commercial
Age: 64, 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):  Airplane Multi-engine; Airplane Single-engine; Instrument Airplane
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 06/01/2018
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 
Flight Time:

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: CESSNA
Registration: N9130T
Model/Series: 180 B
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1959
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 50630
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats:
Date/Type of Last Inspection: 03/09/2018, Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2650 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 2682.1 Hours
Engine Manufacturer: CONT MOTOR
ELT: Installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: O-470-K
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 230 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: KZSE, 325 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 5 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1915 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 225°
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: 29.95 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 29°C / 17°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Auburn, WA (S50)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: VFR
Destination: Kent, WA (S36)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1145 PDT
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: NORMAN GRIER FIELD (S36)
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 472 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 15
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 3288 ft / 40 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full Stop

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: 47.337222, -122.103611 (est)

Bellanca 8KCAB Decathlon, N1182E: Accident occurred June 17, 2021 at Argyle Airport (1C3), Washington County, New York

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; Albany, New York


Location: ARGYLE, NY 
Accident Number: ERA21LA260
Date & Time: June 17, 2021, 11:15 Local 
Registration: N1182E
Aircraft: Bellanca 8KCAB 
Injuries: 1 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Bellanca 
Registration: N1182E
Model/Series: 8KCAB
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: GFL,321 ft msl 
Observation Time: 11:53 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 8 Nautical Miles 
Temperature/Dew Point: 21°C /9°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 7500 ft AGL
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 9 knots / , 70°
Lowest Ceiling: Visibility: 10 miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.95 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: ARGYLE, NY
Destination: ARGYLE, NY

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Serious 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Serious
Latitude, Longitude: 43.254528,-73.470194 




ARGYLE — A Salem man was injured when his plane crashed at Argyle Airport on Thursday morning.

The accident happened just after 11 a.m. at the private airport off Route 40.

Washington County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene and found a Bellanca 8KCAB Decathlon plane that had crashed.

David L. Klingebiel, 80, of Bunker Hill Road, was the only occupant in the plane.

He was removed from the plane and transported by LifeNet helicopter to Albany Medical Center with head, chest and leg injuries, police said.

The plane landed on its roof, according to police radio transmissions.

Police turned over the scene to the Federal Aviation Administration. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

The Fort Edward and Argyle fire departments, Argyle EMS and the Washington County Department of Public Safety also responded to the crash scene.

The airport has seen a few crashes over the years.

A 1958 Cessna Skyhawk 172, carrying two people, crashed in a field just off the runway on Oct. 8, 2016. The pilot had come in at too slow a speed, according to a Post-Star story. The plane struck a tree and flipped over. Both the pilot and passenger suffered minor injuries.

A 1979 Beechcraft Bonanza crashed on Jan. 27, 2010. The pilot was coming in for a landing and tried to avoid ice by heading back into the air. However, the plane did not take flight but smashed through a fence, ending up in a horse pasture just beyond the end of the runway. The man was not hurt.

Visual Flight Rules encounter with Instrument Meteorological Conditions: Beechcraft 77 Skipper, N3815Z; accident occurred June 20, 2020 in Elizabethton, Carter County, Tennessee







Aviation Accident Final 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; Nashville, Tennessee

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board: 


Location: ELIZABETHTON, Tennessee 
Accident Number: ERA20CA222
Date & Time: June 20, 2020, 08:00 Local
Registration: N3815Z
Aircraft: Beech 77
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: VFR encounter with IMC 
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The student pilot and his passenger departed on a visual flight rules cross country flight and entered instrument meteorological conditions. The pilot decided to continue climbing, and when the airplane exited the clouds, the student pilot saw the top of a mountain and trees directly in front of him. He “stalled” the airplane to reduce speed and the airplane impacted trees at a speed of about 60 knots before it descended to the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, but the student pilot and the passenger were uninjured. The student pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane what would have precluded normal operation. The pilot further stated that he made a mistake and took full responsibility for the accident.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The student pilot's decision to continue from visual flight into instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in a collision with trees and mountainous terrain.

Findings

Personnel issues Decision making/judgment - Student/instructed pilot
Environmental issues Clouds - Decision related to condition

Factual Information

History of Flight

Enroute-cruise VFR encounter with IMC (Defining event)
Enroute-cruise Aerodynamic stall/spin
Uncontrolled descent Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Student 
Age: 24, Male
Airplane Rating(s): None
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 None
Last FAA Medical Exam: June 3, 2020
Occupational Pilot: No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: (Estimated) 150 hours (Total, all aircraft), 40 hours (Total, this make and model)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Beech
Registration: N3815Z
Model/Series: 77 No Series
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1981
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal 
Serial Number: WA-219
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: June 24, 2019 100 hour 
Certified Max Gross Wt.:
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 6547.4 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: Installed 
Engine Model/Series: O-235 L2C
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 115 Horsepower
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Instrument (IMC)
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: A09,1592 ft msl 
Distance from Accident Site: 8 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 08:35 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 245°
Lowest Cloud Condition: 
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 2100 ft AGL
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.14 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 19°C / 17°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Morristown, TN (MOR)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: VFR
Destination: Newport News, VA (PHF)
Type of Clearance: VFR
Departure Time: 07:00 Local 
Type of Airspace: Class C

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: 36.406944,-82.02111(est)

Preventing Similar Accidents

Reduced Visual References Require Vigilance

About two-thirds of general aviation accidents that occur in reduced visibility weather conditions are fatal. The accidents can involve pilot spatial disorientation or controlled flight into terrain. Even in visual weather conditions, flights at night over areas with limited ground lighting (which provides few visual ground references) can be challenging.

Preflight weather briefings are critical to safe flight. In-flight, weather information can also help pilots make decisions, as can in-cockpit weather equipment that can supplement official information. In cockpit equipment requires an understanding of the features and limitations. 

We often see pilots who decide to turn back after they have already encountered weather; that is too late.

Pilot's shouldn't allow a situation to become dangerous before deciding to act. Additionally, air traffic controllers are there to help; be honest with them about your situation and ask for help.

Even when flying at night, visual weather conditions can also be challenging. Remote areas with limited ground lighting provide limited visual reference cues for pilots, which can be disorienting or render rising terrain visually imperceptible. Topographic references can help pilots become more familiar with the terrain. The use of instruments, if pilots are proficient, can also help pilots navigate these challenging areas.


The NTSB presents this information to prevent recurrence of similar accidents. Note that this should not be considered guidance from the regulator, nor does this supersede existing FAA Regulations (FARs).

Maule M-5-235C, N4464Y: Accident occurred June 20, 2021 at Lee Airport (KANP), Edgewater, Anne Arundel County, Maryland

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; Baltimore, Maryland


Location: Annapolis, MD 
Accident Number: ERA21LA259
Date & Time: June 20, 2021, 12:38 Local
Registration: N4464Y
Aircraft: Maule M5
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Maule 
Registration: N4464Y
Model/Series: M5 235C 
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: NAK,7 ft msl
Observation Time: 12:54 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 5 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 26°C /24°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear 
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 11 knots / , 110°
Lowest Ceiling: 
Visibility: 4 miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.82 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: VFR
Departure Point: Annapolis, MD 
Destination: Annapolis, MD

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None 
Latitude, Longitude: 38.942242,-76.564839 (est)
 


EDGEWATER, Maryland (WJZ) — A small, single-engine plane crashed into a fence while landing on Sunday according to Anne Arundel County Fire Department.

Around 12:35 p.m., Anne Arundel County Fire responded to an aircraft emergency at Lee Airport.

When fire officials arrived, they found a single-engine plane had struck a fence.

Preliminary investigations reveal the plane went to land at Lee Airport when it left the runway and went through a fence.

The plane was occupied by two people at the time. No injuries were reported.

There was a small fuel leak which has since been contained and no fire when fire officials arrived.

The investigation has been turned over to the Federal Aviation Administration who are on scene.