Monday, July 12, 2021

Cessna 150F, N8172S: Accident occurred July 10, 2021 near Carl Folsom Airport (14J), Elba, Coffee County, Alabama

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; Atlanta, Georgia


Location: Elba, Alabama
Accident Number: ERA21LA284
Date and Time: July 10, 2021, 20:10 Local 
Registration: N8172S
Aircraft: Cessna 150F
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

On July 10, 2021, about 2010 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 150F, N8172Swas substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Elba, Alabama. The flight instructor and student pilot were not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 instructional flight.

According to the flight instructor, after conducting maneuvers for about 30 minutes, they returned to Carl Folsom Airport (14J) to conduct short field landings and takeoffs. After the first successful full stop landing, they taxied back and set up for a short field takeoff. Shortly after rotation and liftoff, the airspeed was not increasing as they flew in ground effect. The flight instructor asked why the student wasn’t climbing, and the student stated, “I don’t know, you have the controls.” The flight instructor took the controls and performed a shallow right climbing turn to avoid the trees at the end of the runway. Once she took the controls there was no time to perform any troubleshooting of the engine because they were “barely” flying, and she needed to “just fly the airplane.” The engine was operating but not achieving sufficient power to maintain level flight. They were flying over the treetops as the airspeed continued to decrease and the airplane started to descend; she pushed the nose over to avoid a stall and attempted a forced landing into the trees.

The airplane impacted the heavily wooded terrain. Postaccident examination of the wreckage revealed that the airplane came to rest in a nose down attitude and was tilted to the right. Both wings were bent aft, and the airframe sustained substantial damage. The left fuel tank was breached, and the right tank remained intact and contained fuel. The airplane wreckage was located about 1,000 ft west southwest from the departure end of the runway.

The wreckage was retained by the NTSB for further examination.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna
Registration: N8172S
Model/Series: 150F
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built:
Operator: On file 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None
Operator Designator Code:

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: VMC
Condition of Light: Dusk
Observation Facility, Elevation: SXS,400 ft msl
Observation Time: 19:58 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 13 Nautical Miles 
Temperature/Dew Point: 23.9°C /22.2°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear 
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 3 knots / , 240°
Lowest Ceiling: None 
Visibility: 9 miles
Altimeter Setting: 30.08 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Elba, AL
Destination: Elba, AL

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 2 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries:
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None 
Latitude, Longitude: 31.410042,-86.090336 (est)






Elba Fire Department

Saturday evening, July 10, 2021, at approximately 8:15 pm Elba Fire Department was dispatched to the area of the Carl Folsom Airport in Elba in reference to a small plane that had crashed with two pilots on board. Truck 2, Engine 3, Truck 6, and ATV 1 all responded. Within a couple minutes firefighters in the area were on scene POV and command was established. After obtaining more information from the caller (the instructor pilot), Elba PD advised that the aircraft was in a heavily wooded area a certain direction off of the airport. Fire and Elba PD units on scene started working to determine the location of the aircraft and occupants through information relayed by the caller and witness statements. Dale County Air 1 was enroute as they had been notified by the 911 caller.

Fire Command made contact with Flatiron (Fort Rucker’s medevac helicopter) and requested they respond as well as New Brockton Volunteer Fire Department for manpower in preparation that the rescue/recovery operations had to all be performed on foot. The 911 caller was able to send their current location to our 911 dispatchers who relayed it to Fire Command. Elba Fire ATV 1 with a firefighter and a crew from Enterprise Rescue Inc. was deployed into the wooded area of the crash as Dale County Air 1 and Flatiron arrived overhead and began locating and circling the crash site. ATV 1 made contact with the patients. 

With the help of air units overhead directing them, they removed the patients from the crash site out to the airport to awaiting ambulances where they were determined to be relatively uninjured. Flatiron sat down on the runway and stood by in case either pilot needed air transport to a hospital for injuries before being released to return to service due to no injuries reported. Units started being released by Command as the incident scaled back. Fire units returned into the crash site to fully secure the aircraft and obtain information. The FAA and NTSB were contacted and the scene was turned over to their agencies. 

Local agencies that responded were Elba Fire, New Brockton Fire, Elba PD, Coffee County Sheriff’s Office, ALEA Troopers, Enterprise Rescue, Dale County Sheriff’s Office Air 1, Flatiron, Coffee County E911, and Coffee County EMA. 

Elba PD, Enterprise PD, Dale County SO, and Flatiron Base handled all communications for the incident and did so phenomenally! In particular, our two dispatchers at Elba PD last night fielded all of the calls, provided all information, contacted all additional resources, and relayed all information coming in, among other things. They did so without a single hiccup and did a fantastic job. 
The event last night was a perfect example of teamwork and coordination. Multiple agencies from multiple areas responded without hesitation which made for a successful outcome. 

Truly a great job to everyone involved and thank you for your help!

Elba Fire Department


Nose Over: Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, N8996Y; accident occurred July 01, 2021 in Petersville, Alaska



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; Anchorage, Alaska

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board: https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket
Location: Talkeetna, Alaska
Accident Number: ANC21LA054
Date and Time: July 1, 2021, 14:45 Local
Registration: N8996Y
Aircraft: Piper PA-18-150
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Nose over/nose down
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

Analysis

The flight instructor reported that after evaluating an uphill off-airport landing site, the pilot receiving instruction proceeded with an approach to landing. The airplane touched down long due to excessive airspeed and a gusty tailwind. During the landing rollout, and as the airplane neared the crest of the hill, excessive braking was applied and the airplane subsequently nosed-over resulting in substantial damage to the right lift strut and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies 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 excessive use of brakes during landing, which resulted in a nose-over. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor’s inadequate supervision and the gusty tailwind conditions. 

Findings

Aircraft Brake - Incorrect use/operation
Aircraft Surface speed/braking - Incorrect use/operation
Personnel issues Use of equip/system - Student/instructed pilot
Personnel issues Delayed action - Instructor/check pilot
Personnel issues Monitoring other person - Instructor/check pilot
Environmental issues Tailwind - Effect on equipment

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing-landing roll Nose over/nose down (Defining event)

Flight instructor Information

Certificate: Commercial; Flight instructor 
Age: 27, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Single-engine sea; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Rear
Other Aircraft Rating(s): 
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s):  Airplane 
Second Pilot Present:
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane multi-engine; Airplane single-engine
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: Class 1 Without
waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: May 5, 2021
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: February 22, 2021
Flight Time: 5686 hours (Total, all aircraft), 743 hours (Total, this make and model)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial 
Age: 26, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None 
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane 
Second Pilot Present:
Instructor Rating(s): None 
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: Unknown
Last FAA Medical Exam: May 30, 2021
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: 900 hours (Total, all aircraft), 5 hours (Total, this make and model)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper
Registration: N8996Y
Model/Series: PA-18-150 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1974 
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal 
Serial Number: 18-7409138
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: February 17, 2021 Annual 
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2000 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 3505.69 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: LYCOMING
ELT: Installed, activated, did not aid in locating accident
Engine Model/Series: 0-320 A2B
Registered Owner:
Rated Power: 150 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: PATK,356 ft msl 
Distance from Accident Site: 24 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 14:53 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 127°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear 
Visibility:  10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: None 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 29.99 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 24°C / 7°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Wasilla, AK (4AK6) 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Wasilla, AK (4AK6) 
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 13:30 Local 
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: Private PVT
Runway Surface Type:
Airport Elevation: 3300 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry; Rough; Soft
Runway Used: 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width:
VFR Approach/Landing: Full stop; Valley/terrain following

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 2 None 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None
Latitude, Longitude: 62.56,-150.77

Loss of Control on Ground: Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, N82547; accident occurred July 03, 2021 at Carl's Landing Airport (AK19), Talkeetna, Alaska







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; Anchorage, Alaska

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

B407 LLC


Location: Talkeetna, Alaska 
Accident Number: ANC21LA055
Date and Time: July 3, 2021, 23:00 Local 
Registration: N82547
Aircraft: Piper PA-18-150
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during takeoff he pushed forward aggressively on the control stick which resulted in a nose-down pitching moment exacerbated by fuel sloshing forward in the wing fuel tanks. In an effort to correct for the pitching moment, he pulled aft on the control stick which caused the tailwheel to impact the ground and the airplane veered to the left. Unable to correct for the veer, he applied the brakes too hard which resulted in a nose-over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right lift strut and vertical stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation, and that the accident may have been prevented if he had been less aggressive when applying flight control inputs.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot’s improper flight control inputs which resulted in a loss of directional control and a nose-over.

Findings

Aircraft Directional control - Not attained/maintained
Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot

Factual Information

History of Flight

Takeoff Loss of control on ground (Defining event)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial
Age: 71, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Single-engine sea; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present:
Instructor Rating(s): None 
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: Class 3 Without waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: June 30, 2020
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: August 7, 2020
Flight Time: 2810 hours (Total, all aircraft), 150 hours (Total, this make and model), 2810 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 60 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 18 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 3 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper
Registration: N82547
Model/Series: PA-18-150
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1978 
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal 
Serial Number: 18-7909003
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel
Seats: 2
Date/Type of Last Inspection: October 22, 2020 Annual 
Certified Max Gross Wt.:
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1
Airframe Total Time: 
Engine Manufacturer:
ELT: C126 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series:
Registered Owner:
Rated Power:
Operator: 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC) 
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: PATK,356 ft msl 
Distance from Accident Site: 9 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 22:53 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 354°
Lowest Cloud Condition: 
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 6000 ft AGL
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 30.22 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 13°C / 8°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Talkeetna, AK 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Wasilla, AK (4AK6)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 
Type of Airspace:

Airport Information

Airport: CARL'S LANDING AK19
Runway Surface Type: Grass/turf
Airport Elevation: 300 ft msl
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 16/34 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 2500 ft / 75 ft 
VFR Approach/Landing: None

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries:
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None 
Latitude, Longitude: 62.173903,-150.06427

Collision with Object (non-CFIT): DHC-2-L-20 Beaver, N9279Z; accident occurred July 09, 2021 in Coffman Cove, Alaska





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; Juneau, Alaska

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:
 
Snow Mountain Enterprises LLC

Southeast Aviation LLC


Location: Coffman Cove, Alaska
Accident Number: ANC21LA057
Date and Time: July 9, 2021, 06:40 Local 
Registration: N9279Z
Aircraft: DEHAVILLAND DHC-2-L-20 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Positioning

Analysis

The pilot of the float-equipped airplane reported that while accelerating on the water for takeoff, he impacted a green channel buoy and nosed over, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing, left lift strut and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation, and that the accident may have been prevented if he had taxied clear of the obstructions before initiating his takeoff.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot’s impact with a buoy on takeoff which resulted in a nose-over.

Findings

Personnel issues Monitoring environment - Pilot
Environmental issues Sign/marker - Effect on equipment

Factual Information

History of Flight

Takeoff Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) (Defining event)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline transport; Commercial 
Age: 64, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Single-engine sea; Multi-engine land; Multiengine sea
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:
Medical Certification: Class 2 With waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: April 6, 2021
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: May 12, 2021
Flight Time: 15526 hours (Total, all aircraft), 7962 hours (Total, this make and model), 15386 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 98 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 48 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: DEHAVILLAND 
Registration: N9279Z
Model/Series: DHC-2-L-20 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1952 
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 345
Landing Gear Type: Tailwheel; Float 
Seats: 8
Date/Type of Last Inspection:
Certified Max Gross Wt.:
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 
Engine Manufacturer: P&W
ELT: C91A installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: R-985 SERIES
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 450 Horsepower
Operator: 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: On-demand air taxi (135), Commercial air tour (136)

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: PAKW, 12 ft msl 
Distance from Accident Site: 27 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 06:53 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 197°
Lowest Cloud Condition: 
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 2000 ft AGL
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 30.12 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 13°C / 12°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Coffman Cove, AK
Type of Flight Plan Filed: VFR
Destination: Ketchikan , AK
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time:
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: COFFMAN COVE KCC
Runway Surface Type: Water
Airport Elevation: 0 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Water-glassy
Runway Used: N/S
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5000 ft / 2000 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: None

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None
Latitude, Longitude: 56.008959,-132.84709


A floatplane crashed during takeoff from the Prince of Wales Island community of Coffman Cove Friday morning. No injuries were reported.

Clint Johnson is the head of the National Transportation Safety Board’s Alaska office.

“The flight was on departure, headed back to Ketchikan. During departure from the water, the airplane struck what they are referring to as an inlet float or buoy, and the airplane subsequently … nosed over and ended upside down,” Johnson said in a phone interview.

Johnson says the pilot was the only person aboard.

The DeHavilland Beaver is owned by Southeast Aviation, which offers charters and flightseeing trips from its headquarters in Ketchikan. In a statement, the company says a charter fishing boat was the first on scene to assist the pilot and secure the aircraft. Other first responders from Coffman Cove assisted in removing debris from the water. Southeast Aviation sent another aircraft to pick up the pilot.

Johnson says the NTSB is investigating the incident. A recent investigation by KUCB and ProPublica found that Alaska is home to a growing share of the country’s crashes involving small commercial aircraft.

Beechcraft C90 King Air, N3688P: Fatal accident occurred July 10, 2021 in Wikieup, Mohave County, Arizona

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 traveled to the scene of this accident.

Additional Participating Entity:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Scottsdale, Arizona

Location: Wikieup, AZ 
Accident Number: WPR21FA266
Date & Time: July 10, 2021, 12:55 Local 
Registration: N3688P
Aircraft: Beech C90 Injuries: 2 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Public aircraft

On July 10, 2021, about 1255 mountain standard time, a Beech C-90, turbo prop airplane, N3688P, was destroyed when it was involved in an accident near Wikieup, Arizona. The pilot and Air Tactical Group supervisor were fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a public-use firefighting aircraft in support of the Bureau of Land Management conducting aerial reconnaissance and supervision.

The airplane was on station for about 45 minutes over the area of the Cedar Basin fire. Preliminary radar data showed that the airplane had accomplished multiple orbits over the area of the fire about 2,500 ft above ground level (agl). The last radar data point showed the airplane’s airspeed about 151 knots, its altitude about 2,300 ft agl, and that it was in a descent, about 805 ft east southeast of the accident site.

According to a witness, the airplane was observed in a steep dive towards the ground. Subsequently, the airplane impacted side of a ridgeline in mountainous desert terrain about 15 miles northeast of Wikieup. The wreckage was consumed by a post-crash fire. Debris was scattered over an area of several acres. The left wing was located about 0.79 miles northeast of the main wreckage and did not sustain thermal damage. No distress call from the airplane was overheard on the radio.

The airplane was recovered to a secure facility for further examination.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Beech 
Registration: N3688P
Model/Series: C90 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: No
Operator: 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: On-demand air taxi (135)
Operator Designator Code: X0FA

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site:
Condition of Light:
Observation Facility, Elevation: KIGM,3420 ft msl
Observation Time: 12:51 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 37 Nautical Miles 
Temperature/Dew Point: 42°C /12°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 11 knots / 18 knots, 260°
Lowest Ceiling: None 
Visibility: 10 miles
Altimeter Setting: 30 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed:
Departure Point: Marana, AZ
Destination:

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 2 Fatal 
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: On-ground
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 Fatal 
Latitude, Longitude: 34.824722,-113.39138 (est)

Those who may have information that might be relevant to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) 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.
 
Pilot Matthew Miller, 48, was flying a Beechcraft C90 King Air that was conducting visual reconnaissance and aviation command and control over the Cedar Fire when it crashed near Wikieup.


Former Stockton Fire Chief Jeff Piechura, 62

WIKIEUP, Arizona (3TV/CBS 5) -- A retired Northwest Fire District Fire Chief was one of two people who died Saturday afternoon after an air attack aircraft crashed while helping fight a wildfire in Mohave County.

According to the Bureau of Land Management, an aircraft helping perform aerial reconnaissance and command and control over the Cedar Basin Fire burning near Wikieup crashed around noon. The aircraft performs aerial supervision and coordination for a fire's aviation resources. Officials say two crew members, pilot 48-year-old Matthew Miller and passenger Jeff Piechura, a former Arizona fire chief from Tucson. Miller was a fire pilot with Falcon Executive Aviation, Inc, contracted by the U.S. Forest Service.

"He was a hero. He really was. A good father. A great great father. A great husband, and a great brother," said Christine Piechura, Jeff's sister.

Christine told Arizona's Family that he started volunteering when he was 17-years-old. Piechura was recruited to help build the Northwest Fire District in Tucson before retiring. Piechura's career took him to Stockton, California, where he served as the city's fire chief for a year. It wasn't long before he returned to Arizona, serving as assistant fire chief in Sedona, and helping the City of Tucson.

"We will provide additional information pending next of kin notification. Our hearts go out to the families of our brave wildland firefighters,” a BLM spokesperson said in a statement released Saturday.

The lightning-caused Cedar Basin Fire has burned 714 acres and has zero containment as of Sunday afternoon. The fire is located 14 miles northeast of Wikieup. The NTSB is investigating the crash.

A statement from the Northwest Fire District reads, in part:

Jeff Piechura became the District’s first Fire Chief in November of 1988 and served in that position for 24 years. During his time as Fire Chief, Piechura led the expansion of the District to serve our growing community. Piechura retired from the Northwest Fire District in 2012, yet continued his career in service with the Stockton, CA Fire Department and Sedona, AZ Fire District before returning to Pima County.

During the decades of professional achievement and service, Jeff was never far from his passion of wildland firefighting. He tragically died doing a job he loved and excelled at. Jeff has flown air tactical group supervisor “Air Attack” missions over Arizona and several other states for decades and his actions helped saved countless homes, unknown acres of natural habitat, and protected the lives of thousands of wildland firefighters working on the front lines. In this role he had command and control of all aircraft working within the vicinity of a fire.

Piechura’s passing leaves a tremendous void in the lives of his beloved family, friends, and the thousands of firefighters across the country he worked with. His professional accomplishments are far too many to be captured in a single document and his personal impact on those who knew him is too immense to comprehend. For those of us fortunate enough to work with Jeff, or ‘Chief Pie,’ we will forever miss his warm smile, firm handshake, and endearing embrace he gave those around him.

Governor Doug Ducey ordered flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset Tuesday, July 13, 2021, to honor the two men.

Beech A36TC Bonanza, N222HC: Accident occurred July 10, 2021 at Chandler Municipal Airport (KCHD), Maricopa County, Arizona


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; Scottsdale, Arizona

MuddFlyers LLC


Location: Chandler, AZ 
Accident Number: WPR21LA287
Date & Time: July 10, 2021, 07:21 Local 
Registration: N222HC
Aircraft: Beech A36TC
Injuries: 1 Serious, 3 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Beech
Registration: N222HC
Model/Series: A36TC 
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:
Condition of Light:
Observation Facility, Elevation: 
Observation Time: 07:21 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 
Temperature/Dew Point:
Lowest Cloud Condition: Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: / ,
Lowest Ceiling:
Visibility:
Altimeter Setting: 
Type of Flight Plan Filed:
Departure Point:
Destination:

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 Serious, 2 Minor
Aircraft Fire: On-ground
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Serious, 3 Minor
Latitude, Longitude: 33.265377,-111.82106 (est)

Stumpfhauser Richard Slipstream, N454RS: Accident occurred July 10, 2021 and Incident occurred October 13, 2012

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Scottsdale, Arizona

July 10, 2021: Aircraft experienced engine issues and landed in the desert and flipped over.


Date: 10-JUL-21
Time: 15:48:00Z
Regis#: N454RS
Aircraft Make: EXPERIMENTAL
Aircraft Model: SLIPSTREAM
Event Type: ACCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: SUBSTANTIAL
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: EN ROUTE (ENR)
Operation: 91
City: DOUGLAS
State: ARIZONA

October 13, 2012


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

October 13, 2012: Aircraft forced landed in a field.

Date: 13-Oct-12
Time: 1723
Regis#: N454RS
Aircraft Make: Experimental 
Aircraft Model: Slipstream
Event Type: Incident
Highest Injury: None
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: Minor
Activity: Personal
Flight Phase: Unknown
Operation: Other
City: Fresno
State: California

Mooney M20K, N2164X: Incident occurred July 10, 2021 at Reid-Hillview Airport (KRHV), San Jose, California

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

Aircraft on takeoff and went off the end of the runway into the grass.  


Date: 10-JUL-21
Time: 14:36:00Z
Regis#: N2164X
Aircraft Make: MOONEY
Aircraft Model: M20K
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: TAKEOFF (TOF)
Operation: 91
City: SAN JOSE
State: CALIFORNIA

Cirrus SR22T GTS G5 Carbon, N773GP: Incident occurred July 11, 2021 at Northern Colorado Regional Airport (KFNL), Loveland, Larimer County, Colorado

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Denver, Colorado

Cantrell Aviation SR20 LLC


Date: 11-JUL-21
Time: 21:42:00Z
Regis#: N773GP
Aircraft Make: CIRRUS
Aircraft Model: SR22
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: FORT COLLINS
State: COLORADO

De Havilland DHC-1 Chipmunk 22, N970WP: Incident occurred July 11, 2021 - Ormond Beach, Volusia County, Florida

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

Aircraft made a forced landing in a field due to engine issues.  


Date: 11-JUL-21
Time: 14:24:00Z
Regis#: N970WP
Aircraft Make: DEHAVILLAND
Aircraft Model: DHC1
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: EN ROUTE (ENR)
Operation: 91
City: ORMOND BEACH
State: FLORIDA

Gulfstream G500, N533SF: Incident occurred July 07, 2021 at Kona International Airport (PHKO), Kailua, Hawaii

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Honolulu, Hawaii

Aircraft blew a tire on takeoff causing damage to flap and gear.

G500 Acquisition LLC


Date: 07-JUL-21
Time: 20:38:00Z
Regis#: N533SF
Aircraft Make: GULSTREAM
Aircraft Model: GVII
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: TAKEOFF (TOF)
Operation: 91
City: KAILUA
State: HAWAII

Air Tractor AT-802A, N949TM: Accident occurred July 11, 2021 in Newell, Buena Vista County, Iowa

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; Ankeny, Iowa Location: Newell, IA
Accident Number: CEN21LA313
Date & Time: July 11, 2021, 07:45 Local 
Registration: N949TM
Aircraft: Air Tractor AT802 
Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 137: Agricultural

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Air Tractor 
Registration: N949TM
Model/Series: AT802A 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: No
Operator: 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Agricultural aircraft (137)
Operator Designator Code:

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: VMC
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KSLB,1488 ft msl 
Observation Time: 07:55 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 12 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 17°C /17°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 10 knots / , 10°
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility: 10 miles
Altimeter Setting: 30.06 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: (POH)
Destination: Newell, IA

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: 42.634578,-94.981444

McDonnell Douglas MD-11F, N263UP: Incident occurred July 10, 2021 at Louisville International Airport (KSDF), Kentucky

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Louisville, Kentucky

Aircraft on landing blew a tire damaging gear door and brake line. 

United Parcel Service Company 


Date: 10-JUL-21
Time: 04:08:00Z
Regis#: N263UP
Aircraft Make: MCDONNELL DOUGLAS
Aircraft Model: MD11
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: CARGO
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 121
Aircraft Operator: UPS
Flight Number: UPS1171
City: LOUISVILLE
State: KENTUCKY

Cessna T210G Turbo Centurion, N6856R: Accident occurred July 09, 2021 at Missoula International Airport (KMSO), Montana

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; Helena, Montana


Location: Missoula, Montana
Accident Number: WPR21LA285
Date and Time: July 9, 2021, 10:00 Local
Registration: N6856R
Aircraft: Cessna T210G 
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 135: Air taxi and commuter - Non-scheduled

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna 
Registration: N6856R
Model/Series: T210G 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built:
Operator: 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: On-demand air taxi (135)
Operator Designator Code:

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: 
Condition of Light:
Observation Facility, Elevation: 
Observation Time:
Distance from Accident Site: 
Temperature/Dew Point:
Lowest Cloud Condition: 
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: / ,
Lowest Ceiling: 
Visibility:
Altimeter Setting: 
Type of Flight Plan Filed:
Departure Point:
Destination:

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Damage: None
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None 
Latitude, Longitude: 46.916306,-114.09055 

Cessna T188C, N2293J: Incident occurred July 09, 2021 in Fallon, Churchill County, Nevada

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Reno, Nevada

Aircraft hit power lines.  


Date: 09-JUL-21
Time: 12:30:00Z
Regis#: N2293J
Aircraft Make: CESSNA
Aircraft Model: T188
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: AERIAL APPLICATION
Flight Phase: MANEUVERING (MNV)
Operation: 137
City: FALLON
State: NEVADA

Bailey Dragonfly, N346FL: Fatal accident occurred July 10, 2021 at Morningside Flight Park, Charlestown, Sullivan County, New Hampshire

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; Portland, Maine

KHK Morningside LLC


Location: Charlestown, NH 
Accident Number: ERA21LA283
Date & Time: July 10, 2021, 18:13 Local
Registration: N346FL
Aircraft: BAILEY N MOYES DRAGONFLY 
Injuries: 1 Fatal, 1 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On July 10, 2021, at 1813 eastern daylight time, an experimental light sport Bailey Moyes Dragonfly, N346FL, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident at the Morningside Flight Park, Charleston, New Hampshire. The commercial pilot sustained minor injuries. The pilot-rated passenger was fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 personal flight.

According to the pilot, prior to the accident flight both he and the pilot-rated passenger performed a preflight inspection together. After the inspection, the pilot-rated passenger flew the airplane solo and performed three touch-and-go landings. After that flight the pilot-rated passenger stopped the airplane, moved to the rear seat, and the pilot sat in the front seat and performed one touch-and-go and one full stop landing. During the third circuit in the traffic pattern, while on final approach, the airplane was too high and the pilot-rated passenger told the pilot to perform a go-around, which he did. During the subsequent downwind leg, the engine power was set initially at 4,200 rpm. Near the end of the downwind leg, at an estimated altitude of 400 ft above ground level, the pilot-rated passenger shook the control stick “violently” and yelled “something about ‘power.’” He shook the controls again and yelled “my airplane” and assumed control of the airplane. At that time the pilot noticed that the engine speed was about 3,200 rpm, slightly below the typical level cruise flight value of about 3,500 rpm. As the airplane was abeam the runway threshold with the engine rpm about 3,200, the pilot-rated passenger began a turn towards the base leg of the airport traffic pattern. At that time, the front seat pilot noted that the airplane was “low” but he thought the altitude was sufficient to clear the power lines. During the turn the engine “lost partial power” and the airplane banked “hard” to the left, pitched nose down and descended into one of the power lines. After the airplane impacted the ground, the engine continued to operate. The pilot attempted to shut down the engine with the magneto switches, but the engine continued to run. He then located the master switch, turned it off, and the engine stopped.

The power lines were oriented generally north/south (about 005° magnetic) and located between 350 to 500 ft west of the runway (which was oriented about 14° magnetic; the takeoffs and landings were all to the north). The towers were about 350 ft apart, and the highest wire was equipped with visibility marker balls (2 balls spaced along the wire between each tower). Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Inspector revealed that all major components of the airplane were present at the accident site. The airplane came to rest adjacent to one of the utility towers supporting the power lines. An electrical arcing mark was present on the left wingtip. The forward fuselage was fractured aft of the front pilot station and was mostly separated from the remainder of the fuselage. The airplane was mostly intact from the rear pilot station to the tail. The aileron and rudder controls were continuous from the rear pilot station to their respective control surfaces. The elevator controls were continuous from the rear pilot station though a fracture in the elevator push-pull tube (which remained attached to its fixtures at both ends), to the elevator. The airplane was equipped with an airframe parachute, which was not deployed. The “safety pin” which prevents accidental deployment while on the ground, was removed (which is appropriate for flight). The fuel tank was about ½ full, a sample of fuel taken upstream of the fuel filter appeared and smelled consistent with automotive fuel (which is the engine manufacturer’s recommended type of fuel). The tips of all three composite propeller blades were frayed/damaged. The engine throttle control cable was fractured in several locations.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: BAILEY N MOYES 
Registration: N346FL
Model/Series: DRAGONFLY
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: No
Operator: 
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: VSF,578 ft msl 
Observation Time: 05:54 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 7 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: 15°C /15°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: 
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: / ,
Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 11000 ft AGL 
Visibility: 10 miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.99 inches Hg 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Charlestown, NH
Destination: Charlestown, NH

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Serious 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Fatal, 1 Serious
Latitude, Longitude: 43.317836,-72.373605 

Those who may have information that might be relevant to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) 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.



CHARLESTOWN, New Hampshire — The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating a fatal plane crash in Charlestown.

The Charlestown Police Department said the crash occurred at about 5:35 p.m. on Saturday. The FAA confirmed that two men were aboard the plane at the time of the crash.

The Charlestown Police Department said one of the two men died at the scene. That man was later identified as Paul Harrison, 54, of Ryegate, Vermont.

The second man was brought to a hospital for what was described to be "serious injuries." Officials announced his identity as Ilya Rivkin, 47, of Windham, Maine.

The Charlestown Police Department, Charlestown Fire Department, New Hampshire State Police, Claremont Fire Department, and Golden Cross Ambulance Service all assisted at the scene.

The last deadly plane crash in New Hampshire happened in Winchester in 2017. John Everson, 65, of Connecticut, died when he crashed into the woods. Investigators said he put too much pressure on himself to finish the flight despite deteriorating weather conditions.

Piper PA-30 Twin Comanche, N1100L: Incident occurred July 11, 2021 at Syracuse Hancock International Airport (KSYR), Onondaga County, New York

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Rochester, New York

Aircraft lost directional control on takeoff and veered off runway.  

Raven Helicopter Rentals Inc


Date: 11-JUL-21
Time: 12:30:00Z
Regis#: N1100L
Aircraft Make: PIPER
Aircraft Model: PA30
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: TAKEOFF (TOF)
Operation: 91
City: SYRACUSE
State: NEW YORK

Syracuse, New York -- A pilot aborted a takeoff Sunday morning at Syracuse Hancock International Airport, and the plane went off the runway, according to airport officials.

The Piper PA-30 Twin Comanche with only the pilot onboard went into a grassy area off the side of runway 15-33, airport officials said at about 10 a.m. There were no injuries reported and the airport is expected to reopen soon.

The Federal Aviation Administration will investigate the incident, said FAA spokeswoman Crystal Essiaw.

The call for a plane off a runway came in at 8:28 a.m. Sunday, according to police dispatchers.

By 9 a.m., emergency lights could be seen on a runway southeast of the terminal. The airport has been using its southeast-northwest backup runway while reconstruction work is underway on its main runway, which runs east-west.

A departing American Airlines flight (operated by subsidiary Piedmont) to Philadelphia left the gate as scheduled at 8:16 a.m., but flight tracker FlightAware showed that it was still on the ground by 10:15 a.m.

The last departure from the airport was an American Airlines flight to Charlotte, North Carolina, that took off at 8:07 a.m.

Cessna 182P, N1822C: Incident occurred July 10, 2021 at Hendersonville Airport (0A7), North Carolina

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Charlotte, North Carolina

Aircraft overshot runway and went through a fence. 


Date: 10-JUL-21
Time: 22:11:00Z
Regis#: N1822C
Aircraft Make: CESSNA
Aircraft Model: 182
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: HENDERSONVILLE
State: NORTH CAROLINA

Aeronca 11AC Chief, N4118V: Incident occurred July 11, 2021 at Bismarck Municipal Airport (KBIS), Burleigh County, North Dakota

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Fargo, North Dakota

Aircraft landed and gear collapsed. 


Date: 11-JUL-21
Time: 14:28:00Z
Regis#: N4118V
Aircraft Make: AERONCA
Aircraft Model: 11AC
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: MINOR
Activity: INSTRUCTION
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: BISMARCK
State: NORTH DAKOTA

Beech A23-24 Musketeer Super III: Incident occurred July 10, 2021 at Frederick Regional Airport (KFDR), Tillman County, Oklahoma

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Aircraft nose gear collapsed on landing.  

Date: 10-JUL-21
Time: 19:24:00Z
Aircraft Make: BEECHCRAFT
Aircraft Model: A23-24
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: FREDERICK
State: OKLAHOMA

Piper PA-34-200T, N444DH: Incident occurred July 09, 2021 at Rostraver Airport (KFWQ), Monongahela, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Allegheny, Pennsylvania

Aircraft landed hard and incurred a propeller strike.  


Date: 09-JUL-21
Time: 19:21:00Z
Regis#: N444DH
Aircraft Make: PIPER
Aircraft Model: PA34
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: PERSONAL
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 91
City: MONONGAHELA
State: PENNSYLVANIA

Cessna 172F Skyhawk, N5340R: Accident occurred July 11, 2021 in Eagle Butte, South Dakota

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; Rapid City, South Dakota


Location: Eagle Butte, SD
Accident Number: CEN21LA316
Date & Time: July 11, 2021, 09:15 Local
Registration: N5340R
Aircraft: Cessna 172F
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On July 11, 2021, about 0915 mountain daylight time, a Cessna 172F, N5340R sustained substantial damage when it was involved in an accident near Eagle Butte, South Dakota. The pilot was uninjured. The airplane was being operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot reported that, when he was about 6 miles from the Cheyenne Eagle Butte Airport (84D), he noticed the engine’s oil temperature was high followed by a “clattering noise.” He reduced the engine power by about 100 rpm and diverted to 84D. About 2 miles from the airport, the engine lost all power. Unable to reach the runway, he elected to execute a forced landing to a wheat field. During touchdown, the nose wheel impacted rising terrain, which caused the airplane to bounce. When it touched back down, the nose gear separated and the airplane flipped over, coming to rest inverted. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left lift strut and fuselage.

A post-accident examination revealed a large hole in the forward section of the engine case. (See figure 1) 


A detailed engine examination is pending.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna
Registration: N5340R
Model/Series: 172F
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: 
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KD07,2580 ft msl 
Observation Time: 05:56 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 32 Nautical Miles 
Temperature/Dew Point: 18°C /9°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Unknown 
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 5 knots / , 240°
Lowest Ceiling: Unknown 
Visibility:
Altimeter Setting: 30.13 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed:
Departure Point: Pierre, SD (KPIR)
Destination: Eagle Butte, SD

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 None
Latitude, Longitude: 44.989766,-101.2589 (est)

Burlington International Airport (KBTV) Director Gene Richards Placed On Leave Following Complaint

Burlington International Airport aviation director Gene Richards is on administrative leave pending an investigation, Burlington city officials confirmed Tuesday.

The city's human resources office received a complaint against Richards and began investigating "immediately," a city spokesperson said in a brief email response to an inquiry by Seven Days. He was placed on paid leave June 30.

The city would not provide any information about the nature of the investigation until it concludes, said Samantha Sheehan, a spokesperson for Mayor Miro Weinberger. Richards did not return several requests for comment. A bounce-back message from his government email address said he would be out of office without access to phone or email from July 1 to July 6.

City leaders had not told members of the Burlington City Council or the Burlington Airport Commission of the ongoing investigation. Reached Tuesday afternoon, commission chair Jeff Munger said he learned of it by reading Seven Days.

Commissioner Helen Riehle, who represents South Burlington, said she would have expected the city to alert the advisory board if the director was on administrative leave, especially “if it's been a whole week.” Riehle said she “can't even guess” what the complaint might be about.

“Generally speaking, I think he's a very good administrator,” she said.

Burlington City Council President Max Tracy (P-Ward 2) said he heard of the complaint on Monday night from someone unconnected to the Weinberger administration. Tracy called the city’s Human Resources director, Kerin Durfee, on Tuesday morning and asked that she inform the rest of the council. Durfee subsequently sent a “very general” email to councilors on Tuesday afternoon, Tracy said.

Tracy criticized Weinberger for not sharing the news with councilors until prompted. He likened the situation to when the mayor chose not to tell councilors in summer 2019 that former police chief Brandon del Pozo had been placed on administrative leave for anonymously trolling a department critic on Twitter. Only his subsequent medical leave was publicized.

“The lesson I took from that was that we need to inform the council, to make sure that we all know,” Tracy said, adding that councilors should know “whenever a department head is placed on administrative leave.”

Sheehan said Tracy's criticism was "way off base." The mayor acted swiftly, she said, and councilors were notified "long before any potential Council action is required, or even anticipated." The administration will brief councilors on the investigation at the next city council meeting in executive session, she said.

Weinberger appointed Richards interim director in 2012. He became the permanent director the following year upon approval by the city council.

In addition to his role at the airport, Richards is a longtime landlord and CEO of Spruce Mortgage.

Deputy director of aviation Nic Longo is serving as acting director of the airport.