Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Loss of Control on Ground: Beech H35 Bonanza, N5596D; accident occurred June 21, 2021 at Colorado Air and Space Port Airport (KCFO), Adams County, Colorado

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; Denver, Colorado

Location: Watkins, Colorado
Accident Number: CEN21LA289
Date and Time: June 21, 2021, 19:13 Local
Registration: N5596D
Aircraft: Beech H35 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The pilot reported that he was landing at his destination airport following a cross-country flight when on touching the airplane’s nose wheel onto the runway, the airplane immediately tracked 10° left of the runway centerline. The pilot attempted to correct with right rudder, but the airplane did not respond to his input and the airplane departed the left side of the runway impacting a runway sign and separating the nose wheel assembly. The airplane came to rest in an area of dry loose sand. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right front keel beam and left flap. The pilot reported that during the cross-country flight he made one
intermediate stop to refuel. The airplane was moved to covered parking following refueling using a golf cart and tow bar, which was connected to the tow pins on the nose gear assembly. The manager at the stopover airport who towed the airplane, reported that nothing abnormal occurred during the tow and he observed no damage on the airplane when the tow bar was attached and detached. An airport video showed the airplane taxi out normally.

After the accident, the tow pin in the nose gear assemble was examined. The fracture surface features were consistent with overload due to shear loading. Based on available evidence, it was not determined if the damage to the tow pin occurred during the towing operation or during the accident sequence. The airplane manufacturer reported that a damaged tow pin on the nose gear assembly would not cause a loss of steering ability from the cockpit. Additionally, the manufacturer reported there are no towing limits published for the airplane, nor are there requirements for tow limit markings or a tow limitation placard to be installed on the nose gear assembly.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and a subsequent impact with an obstacle.

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot
Aircraft Directional control - Not attained/maintained
Environmental issues Sign/marker - Contributed to outcome

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing-landing roll Loss of control on ground (Defining event)
Landing-landing roll Runway excursion
Landing-landing roll Collision during takeoff/land

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline transport; Commercial 
Age: 79, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None 
Restraint Used: Lap only
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None 
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: Class 3 Without waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: February 20, 2020
Occupational Pilot: No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: June 29, 2019
Flight Time: (Estimated) 21380 hours (Total, all aircraft), 3700 hours (Total, this make and model), 18945 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Beech
Registration: N5596D
Model/Series: H35 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1957 
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal 
Serial Number: D-5124
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: August 3, 2020 100 hour 
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 3050 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 6819.1 Hrs at time of accident
Engine Manufacturer: Continental Motors
ELT: C126 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: I0-470-N14
Registered Owner:
Rated Power: 260 Horsepower
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None
Operator Does Business As: None
Operator Designator Code: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KDEN, 5431 ft msl 
Distance from Accident Site: 5 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 18:53 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 296°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 5000 ft AGL 
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 6 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 170° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.12 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 22°C / 9°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Russellville, AR (RUE) 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: IFR
Destination: Watkins, CO 
Type of Clearance: IFR
Departure Time: 15:57 Local
Type of Airspace: Class D

Airport Information

Airport: COLORADO AIR AND SPACE PORT CFO
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt; Concrete
Airport Elevation: 5515 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 08/26
IFR Approach: ILS
Runway Length/Width: 8002 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full stop

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: 39.793786,-104.5511 (est)

Hard Landing: Bell 407, N512TP; accident occurred June 21, 2021 at Tampa Executive Airport (KVDF), Hillsborough County, Florida




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; Tampa, Florida

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:
Location: Tampa, Florida
Accident Number: ERA21LA264
Date and Time: June 21, 2021, 21:45 Local
Registration: N512TP
Aircraft: Bell 407
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Hard landing 
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

Analysis

The pilot and flight instructor were practicing straight-in, full touch down power off landings (autorotations) in the helicopter at night, with the aid of night vision goggles (NVGs). The pilot determined where on the runway he was going to land and entered the autorotation at an approximate airspeed of 60 knots. When the helicopter was about 90 to 100 ft above the ground, and the engine rpm was at 99-100%, he entered the flare. At the bottom of the flare, the pilot “bumped” up the collective to arrest the rate of descent and leveled out at what he thought was about 7-10 ft above the runway. At that point, the pilot said it felt like the bottom of the helicopter started to fall out from underneath him. He added more collective to arrest the sink rate, but it had no impact on stopping the vertical sink rate. The low rotor rpm horn sounded right before the helicopter landed hard on the runway. The impact was sufficient to flex the main rotor blades and sever the tail boom. The main rotor blades were also substantially damaged. The operator reported there were no mechanical deficiencies of the helicopter that contributed to the accident.

The runway had been recently paved and was very dark in color. The pilot had conducted “hundreds” of NVG power off landings to this runway in the past, but this was his first time after the runway had been re-paved. This was the flight instructor’s first time executing a practice NVG power off landing to this runway. As such, the visual cues that the pilot was used to experiencing had changed, and most likely affected his ability to judge the helicopter’s height and speed above the ground, which resulted in a higher-than-normal flair, low rotor rpm, and subsequent hard landing.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot’s improper landing flare while making a power off practice autorotative landing. Contributing was the decreased visual cues provided by the recently paved runway during the night landing conducted with the aid of night vision goggles.

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot
Aircraft Landing flare - Not attained/maintained
Personnel issues Visual illusion/disorientation - Pilot
Environmental issues (general) - Effect on personnel
Environmental issues Dark - Effect on personnel

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing-flare/touchdown Hard landing (Defining event)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline transport; Commercial; Flight instructor; Private
Age: 44, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land 
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter 
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane; Helicopter
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): Helicopter; Instrument helicopter 
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: Class 2 Without waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: December 21, 2020
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: November 27, 2020
Flight Time: 2721 hours (Total, all aircraft), 1472 hours (Total, this make and model), 2412 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 50 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 24 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 0 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Flight instructor Information

Certificate: Airline transport; Flight instructor
Age: 31, Male
Airplane Rating(s): None
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): Helicopter 
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): Helicopter 
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): Helicopter; Instrument helicopter 
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: Class 2 Without waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: March 8, 2021
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: June 11, 2021
Flight Time: 2047 hours (Total, all aircraft), 112 hours (Total, this make and model), 1909 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 124 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 39 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 0 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Bell
Registration: N512TP
Model/Series: 407 
Aircraft Category: Helicopter
Year of Manufacture: 2002
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal 
Serial Number: 53546
Landing Gear Type: None; High skid 
Seats: 7
Date/Type of Last Inspection: April 28, 2021 Continuous airworthiness
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 5250 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 34 Hrs 
Engines: 1 Turbo shaft
Airframe Total Time: 9643 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Rolls Royce
ELT: Installed, not activated 
Engine Model/Series: 250-647B
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 650
Operator: 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Night
Observation Facility, Elevation: VDF,22 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 08:15 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 95°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear 
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: None 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 4 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 170° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.09 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 27°C / 26°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Tampa, FL (TPA)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Tampa, FL
Type of Clearance: VFR
Departure Time: 21:18 Local 
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: TAMPA EXEC VDF 
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt; Concrete
Airport Elevation: 21 ft msl
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 05/23
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5000 ft / 100 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full stop; Simulated forced landing

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: 28.014049,-82.345625

Loss of Control in Flight: Piper PA-28-235 Cherokee Charger, N15381; accident occurred June 22, 2021 near Big Bear City Airport (L35), San Bernardino County, California

 






 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; Riverside, California

Location: Big Bear City, California
Accident Number: WPR21LA245
Date and Time: June 22, 2021, 14:30 Local
Registration: N15381
Aircraft: Piper PA-28-235 
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight
Injuries: 2 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The pilot reported that immediately upon touchdown on runway 26, the airplane ballooned, possibly the result of an unexpected gust. As the airplane ascended, he noted the airplane drifted to the right of runway center line and he initiated a go-around. The pilot said that the airplane began a steep bank to the right as he advanced the throttle. As the wings leveled, the airplane was headed towards a tree line, and he noted that impact with trees was imminent. The airplane subsequently impacted trees and a postimpact fire destroyed the airplane. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The airport’s automated weather observation station reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was wind from 200° at 10 knots with gusts to 16 knots.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot’s inadequate flare and subsequent loss of airplane control during an aborted landing in gusting wind, which resulted in impact with trees.

Findings

Personnel issues Decision making/judgment - Pilot
Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot
Aircraft Landing flare - Not attained/maintained
Environmental issues Gusts - Effect on operation
Environmental issues Tree(s) - Effect on equipment

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing-flare/touchdown Loss of control in flight (Defining event)
Landing-aborted after touchdown Collision during takeoff/land

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 64,Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land 
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None 
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): None 
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: Class 3 Without waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: December 12, 2017
Occupational Pilot: No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: May 18, 2021
Flight Time: (Estimated) 269 hours (Total, all aircraft), 218 hours (Total, this make and model), 4.4 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 4.4 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 0.8 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Passenger Information

Certificate: 
Age: Female
Airplane Rating(s): 
Seat Occupied: Right
Other Aircraft Rating(s): 
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): 
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): 
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: 
Last FAA Medical Exam:
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper 
Registration: N15381
Model/Series: PA-28-235 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1972
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 28-7310040
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: May 27, 2021 Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 3000 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 5 Hrs 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 2915 Hrs as of last inspection 
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: Installed 
Engine Model/Series: 0-540-B4B5
Registered Owner: Rated Power: 250 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: KL35,6749 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 14:35 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 82°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Scattered / 12000 ft AGL 
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 10 knots / 16 knots
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 200°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.27 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 23°C / 0°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Upland, CA (KCCB) 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Big Bear, CA (L35) 
Type of Clearance: VFR flight following
Departure Time: 14:00 Local
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: BIG BEAR CITY L35
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 6752 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 26 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 5850 ft / 75 ft 
VFR Approach/Landing: Go around; Traffic pattern

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Serious
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries: 1 Serious 
Aircraft Fire: On-ground
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 Serious
Latitude, Longitude: 34.263778,-116.85602(est)

Collision with Terrain (non-CFIT): Cessna T206H Turbo Stationair, N881HP; accident occurred June 22, 2021 at Apple Valley Airport (KAPV), San Bernardino County, California





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; Riverside, California

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:
Location: Apple Valley, California
Accident Number: WPR21LA240
Date and Time: June 22, 2021, 23:55 Local
Registration: N881HP
Aircraft: Cessna T206 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Public aircraft

Analysis

The pilot reported that, while taxiing the airplane from the ramp to the runway in nighttime conditions he noted the location of the two sets of taxiway lights that indicate the location of the ramp entrance to taxiway alpha. The pilot then reached down to configure the radio and when he looked back outside to the left, he saw one row of two blue taxiway lights, however he did not see the other set of taxiway lights to the left of the set he initially saw and believed that what he saw was the first row (north side). He immediately applied left rudder input to turn but the airplane suddenly stopped, as the airplane had exited the taxiway ramp and impacted a drainage culvert. The aft section of the fuselage was substantially damaged. 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 distraction due to adjusting the radio while taxing at night, which resulted in a taxiway excursion and subsequent impact with terrain. 

Findings

Personnel issues Monitoring environment - Pilot
Personnel issues Task monitoring/vigilance - Pilot
Environmental issues Dark - Effect on personnel

Factual Information

History of Flight

Taxi-to runway Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) (Defining event)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial 
Age: 51, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land 
Seat Occupied: Right
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: Unknown
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None 
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: Class 2 None
Last FAA Medical Exam: May 18, 2021
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: (Estimated) 2835 hours (Total, all aircraft), 1951 hours (Total, this make and model), 2418 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 12 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft)

Other flight crew Information

Certificate: Commercial
Age: 45, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land 
Seat Occupied: Left
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: August 23, 2021
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: July 24, 2020
Flight Time: (Estimated) 641 hours (Total, all aircraft), 4 hours (Total, this make and model), 570 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 23 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Cessna
Registration: N881HP
Model/Series: T206H 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2000 
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: T20608234
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 3
Date/Type of Last Inspection: June 17, 2021 AAIP 
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 3617 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 21.9 Hrs 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 15157.6 Hrs 
Engine Manufacturer: LYCOMING
ELT: C126 installed, not activated 
Engine Model/Series: TIO-540-AJ1A
Registered Owner:
Rated Power: 310 Horsepower
Operator:
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Night
Observation Facility, Elevation: KGXA, 3020 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 24 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 23:58 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 269°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 17000 ft AGL 
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling:
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 29.94 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 22°C / -2°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: Apple Valley, CA
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Apple Valley, CA
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time:
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport Information

Airport: APPLE VALLEY APV 
Runway Surface Type:
Airport Elevation: 3061 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width:
VFR Approach/Landing: None

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 1 None
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None
Latitude, Longitude: 34.570937,-117.19035

Spacek SD-1 Minisport, N72DX: Accident occurred June 23, 2021 at Freeman Swank Farms Airport (0OH5), Butler, Richland County, Ohio

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; Cleveland, Ohio


Location: Butler, Ohio
Accident Number: CEN21LA288
Date and Time: June 23, 2021, 10:15 Local 
Registration: N72DX
Aircraft: VINING JOHN K SD-1 MINISPORT
Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On June 23, 2021, at 1015 eastern daylight time, an experimental amateur-built SD-1 Minisport airplane, N72DX, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident at the Freeman Swank Farms Airport (0OH5), Butler, Ohio. The pilot was not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot reported that the private airport was equipped with one turf runway, which was orientated along 13/31 magnetic. A line of trees paralleled the runway on the southwest side, and a cornfield was on the northeast side. Right before takeoff, the windsock indicated a westerly crosswind from over the tree line, therefore, he went to the end of runway 31 and added full power. The airplane lifted off the ground, but it would not climb more than about 10 ft. It drifted over the adjacent cornfield but would still not climb. He leveled the airplane; it descended into the corn and slid to a stop. The airplane’s leftwing spar was substantially damaged.

The pilot further reported that the airplane normally climbs very easily and quickly. It may have been experiencing a reduction of engine power, but he was unable to check the RPM gauge during the accident sequence.

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

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: VINING JOHN K
Registration: N72DX
Model/Series: SD-1 MINISPORT
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: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KMFD,1290 ft msl 
Observation Time: 10:52 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 14 Nautical Miles 
Temperature/Dew Point: 22°C /7°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear 
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 7 knots / , 220°
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility: 10 miles
Altimeter Setting: 30.21 inches Hg 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Butler, OH 
Destination: Mount Vernon, OH (4I3)

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: 40.59683,-82.43173 (est)

Loss of Control on Ground: Piper PA-46-350P Malibu Mirage, N110ST; accident occurred June 24, 2021 at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (KSTL), St. Louis County, Missouri















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; St. Ann, Missouri

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board: 
Location: St. Louis, Missouri
Accident Number: CEN21LA312
Date and Time: June 24, 2021, 13:17 Local
Registration: N110ST
Aircraft: Piper PA 46-350P 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground 
Injuries: 3 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The pilot reported that while landing on a wet runway and as he applied brakes during the landing roll, the airplane began to hydroplane, and the nose landing gear collapsed. The airplane veered left and exited the side of the runway coming to a stop in the grass. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine mount. The pilot reported there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe and engine that would have precluded normal operation. A review of the airplane’s maintenance records revealed that Piper Aircraft Service Bulletin (SB) 1103F (a recurring inspection of the engine mount for cracks every 100 hours) was complied with only once in the airplane’s service history, which was about 437 hours before the accident occurred. Based on the available information, it was undetermined if any preexisting defects in the engine mount contributed to nose landing gear collapse. The pilot reported the accident could have been prevented by “not applying brakes” and allowing a “continued roll out.”

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll with hydroplaning conditions.

Findings

Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot
Aircraft Braking capability - Attain/maintain not possible
Environmental issues Wet surface - Contributed to outcome
Environmental issues Wet surface - Ability to respond/compensate

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing-landing roll Abnormal runway contact
Landing-landing roll Loss of control on ground (Defining event)
Landing-landing roll Runway excursion
Landing-landing roll Landing gear collapse

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private 
Age: 68, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None 
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane 
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane single-engine
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: Class 3 Without waivers/limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: February 16, 2021
Occupational Pilot: No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: February 11, 2020
Flight Time: (Estimated) 6057 hours (Total, all aircraft), 1346 hours (Total, this make and model), 6000 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 30 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 17 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 4 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper 
Registration: N110ST
Model/Series: PA 46-350P 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2005 
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal 
Serial Number: 4636373
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle 
Seats: 6
Date/Type of Last Inspection: October 16, 2020 Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 4340 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 1814 Hrs as of last inspection 
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming Engines
ELT: C126 installed, not activated
Engine Model/Series: TIO-540-AE2A
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 350 Horsepower
Operator: On file 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None
Operator Does Business As: None 
Operator Designator Code: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KSTL,531 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 1 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 13:25 Local 
Direction from Accident Site: 295°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 5000 ft AGL
Visibility: 10 miles
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 13000 ft AGL
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 12 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: None / None
Wind Direction: 240° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: N/A / N/A
Altimeter Setting: 30.01 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 27°C / 21°C
Precipitation and Obscuration:
Departure Point: Blountville, TN (TRI) 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: IFR
Destination: St. Louis, MO
Type of Clearance: IFR
Departure Time: 12:00 Local
Type of Airspace: Class B

Airport Information

Airport: ST LOUIS LAMBERT INTL STL 
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt; Concrete
Airport Elevation: 618 ft msl 
Runway Surface Condition: Wet
Runway Used: 12L/30R
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 9003 ft / 150 ft
VFR Approach/Landing: Full stop; Straight-in

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 None 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: 2 None 
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: 
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 3 None 
Latitude, Longitude: 38.745331,-90.353213 (est)

Loss of Control in Flight: Piper PA-28-180, N9277J; accident occurred June 24, 2021 near Northern Colorado Regional Airport (KFNL), Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado












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; Denver, Colorado

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:

Iron Sights Aviation LLC 


Location: Loveland, Colorado
Accident Number: CEN21LA291
Date and Time: June 24, 2021, 18:45 Local
Registration: N9277J
Aircraft: Piper PA-28-180 
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight 
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Instructional

Analysis

The flight instructor reported that he was conducting practice maneuvers with a student in the local area when he observed virga developing in the distance. He decided to return to the airport and assumed control of the airplane. During the landing, the airplane encountered a “strong right-to-left wind” gust and began to drift off the runway centerline. The instructor decided to execute a go-around and “quickly advanced to full throttle.” The airplane yawed to the left and continued to drift until it was no longer over the runway. The left wing impacted the ground in the grassy area adjacent to the runway, and the airplane cartwheeled before coming to rest near the parallel taxiway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The flight instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. At the time of the accident, the instructor pilot was landing on runway 15 with wind from 200° at 20 knots. The flight instructor reported that he was aware of a convective SIGMET for thunderstorms and there were thunderstorms in the vicinity at the time.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The flight instructor’s failure to maintain aircraft control during the landing flare and subsequent attempted go-around with a strong quartering crosswind. 

Findings

Personnel issues Identification/recognition - Instructor/check pilot
Personnel issues Decision making/judgment - Instructor/check pilot
Personnel issues Aircraft control - Instructor/check pilot
Environmental issues Thunderstorm - Contributed to outcome
Environmental issues Gusts - Contributed to outcome

Factual Information

History of Flight

Landing Windshear or thunderstorm
Landing-flare/touchdown Loss of control in flight (Defining event)
Landing-flare/touchdown Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Flight instructor Information

Certificate: Commercial; Flight instructor 
Age: 33, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land
Seat Occupied: Right
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane single-engine 
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: Class 1 With waivers/limitations 
Last FAA Medical Exam: September 28, 2018
Occupational Pilot: Yes 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: March 19, 2021
Flight Time: 388 hours (Total, all aircraft), 118 hours (Total, this make and model), 317 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 50 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 17 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 0 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Student pilot Information

Certificate: Student 
Age: 30, Male
Airplane Rating(s): None
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None 
Restraint Used: 3-point
Instrument Rating(s): None 
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): None 
Toxicology Performed:
Medical Certification: None, None 
Last FAA Medical Exam:
Occupational Pilot: No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: 8 hours (Total, all aircraft), 8 hours (Total, this make and model), 0 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 8 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 0 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 0 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper 
Registration: N9277J
Model/Series: PA-28-180 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1966
Amateur Built:
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: 28-3356
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats: 4
Date/Type of Last Inspection: April 10, 2021 Annual
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2400 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection: 85 Hrs 
Engines: 1 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 4278 Hrs at time of accident 
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: Installed, not activated 
Engine Model/Series: O-360-A3A
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power: 180 Horsepower
Operator: 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: FNL,5016 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 0.5 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 18:38 Local
Direction from Accident Site: 330°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Few / 1200 ft AGL
Visibility 8 miles
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 7000 ft AGL 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 16 knots / 30 knots
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 260° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 30.04 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 19°C / 12°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: Heavy - Thunderstorm - Rain
Departure Point: Loveland, CO (FNL)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Loveland, CO
Type of Clearance: VFR
Departure Time: 18:17 Local 
Type of Airspace: Class E

Airport Information

Airport: Northern Colorado Regional KFNL
Runway Surface Type: Asphalt
Airport Elevation: 5016 ft msl
Runway Surface Condition: Dry
Runway Used: 15
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width: 8500 ft / 100 ft 
VFR Approach/Landing: Go around; Straight-in

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: 40.451827,-105.01133 (est)

Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee, N4216J: Accident occurred June 25, 2021 near North Houston Airport (9X1), Porter, Montgomery County, Texas



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; Houston, Texas


Location: Porter, Texas
Accident Number: CEN21LA293
Date and Time: June 25, 2021, 10:00 Local 
Registration: N4216J
Aircraft: Piper PA-28-140 
Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On June 25, 2021, about 1000 central daylight time, a Piper PA-28-140, N4216J, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near North Houston Airport (9X1) Porter, Texas. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to the pilot, the preflight, taxi, and run-up checks were normal, and the airplane was lined up on the runway for takeoff. Full engine power was applied with the brakes held and engine instruments checked before takeoff. After brake release the airplane accelerated to takeoff speed and they rotated and began to climb. During the initial climb the airspeed was not increasing and the pilot discontinued the climb, made a turn to avoid trees, and decided to land the airplane on a nearby construction site. During the landing to the construction site the airplane struck an embankment. The fuselage and left wing received substantial damage.

The airplane will be examined once recovered from the accident site.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper 
Registration: N4216J
Model/Series: PA-28-140 
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built:
Operator: 
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:
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: 2 None
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries:
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 None 
Latitude, Longitude:30.153375,-95.321989 

Robinson R44 Raven II, N544SC: Fatal accident occurred December 29, 2021 near Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport (KGKT), Sevierville, Sevier County, Tennessee

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 Entities:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Nashville, Tennessee
Robinson Helicopter; Torrance, California
Lycoming; Westport, Pennsylvania

November Alpha LLC


Location: Cosby, Tennessee 
Accident Number: ERA22FA096
Date and Time: December 29, 2021, 14:25 Local 
Registration: N544SC
Aircraft: ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Injuries: 1 Fatal, 1 Serious
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On December 29, 2021, at 1425 eastern standard time, a Robinson R-44 II, N544SC, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Cosby, Tennessee. The commercial pilot received serious injuries and the passenger was fatally injured. The helicopter was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to personnel at Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT), Sevierville, Tennessee, the pilot and passenger traveled from Utah to pick up the helicopter after leasing it from the owner. They arrived at the service center where the helicopter had been stored about 0830 on the day of the accident. The pilot reviewed the lease agreement and conducted a local flight around the GKT airport traffic pattern to assess the helicopter per the lease agreement.

According to personnel at the service center, “the weather throughout the day was changing from marginal visual flight rules (VFR) conditions to instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions.” The pilot had many conversations with the service center employees about leaving the area but was cautioned by all of them he spoke with about the dangers of flying in the Smoky Mountains in marginal weather. One person showed him a book in their training room filled with controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) accidents that occurred in the area. The pilot’s response was “those are hills,” and informed him he had 14 years of experience of mountain flying. Additionally, a local helicopter air ambulance pilot that worked on the field met the pilot and asked about his intentions. The pilot stated he planned on departing towards Asheville and follow Interstate 40 through the gorge to Raleigh, North Carolina, where he would visit relatives before heading back west. The other helicopter pilot told him that the mountains east of GKT were 6,000 ft and “there was no way he would make it there.” He also stated there were powerlines above the I-40 gorge.

About 1413, the pilot and passenger departed GKT eastbound. Preliminary Federal Aviation Administration radar data (figure 1) showed the helicopter flying through the valleys in an easterly/southeasterly direction at altitudes between 1,200 ft and 1,750 ft. The data was not continuous along the route. An eyewitness located in a campground near the accident site stated that he first heard the helicopter coming, then witnessed it fly out of the fog. After observing the impact trees, he called 911. Additionally, he stated, “it was extremely foggy that day.”

The helicopter came to rest on a heading of 210°, the cabin impacted the ground and was crushed forward with the tail boom raised behind the cabin. The tail rotor was separated and resting on the right side of the wreckage. Examination of the wreckage revealed all engine structural components, fuselage and flight control surfaces were accounted for at the scene. The main and auxiliary fuel tanks remained attached to the fuselage. The auxiliary fuel tank was examined and appeared to be full. Fuel was collected from both tanks with no contamination noted. Flight control continuity was confirmed from all flight control surfaces to the flight controls in the cockpit.

The engine was examined and remained attached to the airframe with no noticeable damage. The engine compartment was free of oil or fuel residue.

Both main rotor blades remained attached to the main rotor hub, and one blade was bent, but complete. The other blade was bent and impact-separated into three pieces. The majority of the blade was attached to the main rotor hub, with three feet of the tip separated in two pieces; about 2.5 ft of blade material and the weighted tip. Both pieces were located near the main wreckage to the north.

The wreckage was retained for further examination.



Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY
Registration: N544SC
Model/Series: R44 II 
Aircraft Category: Helicopter
Amateur Built:
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: GKT, 833 ft msl 
Observation Time: 14:15 Local
Distance from Accident Site: 15 Nautical Miles 
Temperature/Dew Point: 17°C /16°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Scattered / 1800 ft AGL 
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: / ,
Lowest Ceiling: Broken / 3400 ft AGL
Visibility: 10 miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.86 inches Hg 
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Gatlinburg, TN (GKT)
Destination: Raleigh, NC (RDU)

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: 35.773248,-83.279198 (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.

KNOXVILLE, Tennessee (WVLT) - Matthew Jones, the pilot of a helicopter that crashed in Sevier County late last month, has a history of committing fraud and operating as a certified flight instructor without an airman’s certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, according to an indictment obtained by WVLT News.

Jones was flying a helicopter that took off from the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport on Dec. 29 when he crashed in Sevier County. Jones’ passenger died in the crash, and Jones himself was critically injured, according to documents from law enforcement.

Jones, a Utah native, was indicted in Utah on Oct. 13, 2021 for operating as a flight instructor and defrauding a person who was paying him for flight instruction, court documents say. Jones was part of a scheme that involved advertising his company as an instructor on Instagram and using $9,958.16 intended for instruction for personal use.

During the hearing, the court also ordered Jones be evaluated for THC levels and undergo treatment for substance abuse, court documents state. The court also denied Jones’ request to keep flying after the incident.

“Defendant requests permission to begin flying again,” court documents state. “Government states objections for the record. For the reasons stated on the record, the Court denies the request at this time.”

This means that Jones was not cleared for flying at the time of the December crash.

WVLT News obtained a police report following the crash, which outlines the details as officials responded to the scene.




Juli Wagner


SALT LAKE CITY — Friends of a Utah woman who died in a helicopter crash in Tennessee are speaking out after they learned the pilot was ordered not to fly by a federal judge a week prior.

The U.S. Attorney’s office confirmed to KSL that Matthew Jones should not have been in Tennessee, let alone flying any aircraft. That’s because he’s facing a federal prosecution in Utah for mail fraud and falsely claiming he was a certified flight instructor.

Juli Wagner was the passenger who died in the December 29 crash in Sevier County, Tennessee.

Her friend, Gina Blake, wants justice.

“Juli had a really big, beautiful heart and she loved people,” Blake said.

She was a devoted mother to her son, a huge Tom Brady Patriots fan, and a savvy businesswoman, who Blake says recently started dating Matthew Jones.

“She sent me pictures of him and said he was a pilot who flew planes and helicopters.”

Days before leaving for Tennessee with Jones, Wagner told Blake they were planning on opening a helicopter tour business.

“She said she was excited to go up in the sky with him.”

Tennessee authorities say the helicopter Jones was flying took off from the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport and went down eight minutes later. Weather conditions were overcast, drizzly and foggy.

“After she died, this new information started coming out about his background,” Blake said.

Blake says she felt like something was off about Jones, but never imagined he would put Wagner in danger.

Instead of celebrating what would have been Juli Wagner’s 36th birthday last week, Blake will honor her memory.

“I’m really angry,” she said. “I feel like he’s a con-man who conned his way into Juli’s life.

Jones is recovering from his injuries at a Tennessee hospital.

The U.S. Attorney’s office says it will depend on his health status as to when he will be brought back to Utah to face prosecution.


Matthew Jones



KNOXVILLE, Tennessee — The man flying the helicopter that crashed December 29 in Sevier County, killing his passenger, is facing federal prosecution for falsely claiming he was a certified flight instructor in Utah and had been told by a federal magistrate judge one week before the crash that he was not to fly any aircraft, WBIR has learned.

Matthew Jones, 35, suffered injuries when the leased Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter he was piloting went down on a ridge at about 2,000 feet near the Sevier-Cocke county line. His passenger and business associate, Julianne "Juli" Wagner, died in the crash.

Both were from Utah.

Andrew Choate, spokesman for the U.S. Attorney's Office in Utah, confirmed Jones' identity Wednesday and said there's an ongoing investigation. Jones was already being prosecuted in Utah for mail fraud as well as "operating as an airman without an airman's certificate."

Jones is in stable condition at the University of Tennessee Medical Center, where he was transported after the crash the afternoon of December 29 off Apple Tree Lane near Hooper Highway.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash, NTSB spokesman Peter Knudson said. Sevier and Cocke county authorities referred questions to the federal agency.

The Federal Aviation Administration, in an online database posted last week, stated the pilot died in the December 29 crash and the passenger lived.

That's incorrect, records show.

Jones was at the controls, a Cocke County Sheriff's Office report states. Wagner didn't know how to fly the aircraft, friends told WBIR.

Cocke County officers were the first to speak to Jones at the scene. They could hear him calling for help. A Cocke County sergeant cut Wagner from her seatbelt; she was unresponsive.

The helicopter had been leased from Touchstone Helicopters in California by an Utah-based LLC identified as Lifted. It was Touchstone's understanding the aircraft ultimately would be transported to Utah.

Jones and Wagner were aloft about 8 minutes the afternoon of December 29 after taking off from the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport before the helicopter went down. It flew at an elevation between 1,500 feet and 2,000 feet, according to Flightaware.com. Weather conditions were overcast, drizzly and foggy.

From the flight path, the weather conditions and an eyewitness account, the helicopter may have flown in the clouds, in an area with low visibility.

Wagner would have turned 36 on Sunday.

Her obituary described her as the kind of person "you always wanted to be around, because she made everything brighter, instilled everything with more fun."

She loved the Patriots, beer, hiking, camping and "irreverent comedies." Survivors include a 7-year-old son, the most precious person in the world to her, the obituary states.

UNDER INDICTMENT

A grand jury in Utah indicted Jones, of Spanish Fork, Utah., in October, federal records show.

He represented himself as the owner and operator of Noctem Aviation in Utah and said he was a certified flight instructor in helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.

Starting in about May 2019, according to court records, and continuing through November 21, 2019, he was involved in a "scheme and artifice" to defraud someone identified as "T.M." who wanted to get flight lessons for a son.

"It was the object of the scheme and artifice to defraud for Jones to obtain money from T.M. through false statements, misrepresentations, deception and omissions of material facts, and false pretenses, in that Jones falsely represented himself to be a (certified flight instructor) and certified pilot in helicopters and fix-wing aircraft authorized to provide training and certification through the FAA," the indictment states.

Jones used text messages and Instagram to claim he was a certified flight instructor, records state.

Jones embezzled money from T.M. through a joint bank account at Deseret First Credit Union set up to cover expenses for the flight instruction.

Instead of spending the money for flight lessons, he used it to personal expenses like rent, ATM withdrawals, cell phone bills and personal purchases, authorities allege.

The government alleges Jones "stole" nearly $10,000 in the "scheme."

Utah business records list Matthew Jones, Julie Myers and Tom Myers as principals in Noctem LLC. Julie Myers, of Springville, Utah, was identified as the registered agent.

By September 2020, Noctem's status as an LLC had expired, records show.

Jones had been allowed free pending prosecution in Utah -- but under certain conditions.

He was ordered not to leave Utah without permission from a pretrial officer. He was also ordered not to use drugs.

Another order, records show: "Defendant shall not be employed as flight instructor, or fly any aircraft. Defendant shall not be self-employed."

Within weeks, Jones was violating the order, records show.

On December 5 -- 24 days before the helicopter crash -- authorities say he used marijuana.

Jones and his attorney were ordered to appear December 22 in U.S. District Court in Utah before Magistrate Judge Dustin B. Pead.

Jones admitted using marijuana, according to records.

Pead ordered stepped-up testing for Jones and testing to check for THC. He also was ordered to undergo a substance abuse evaluation and get treatment as recommended.

Jones still wanted to fly, however. The government objected, records show.

The magistrate told Jones he still was not allowed to fly, according to federal records.

One week later, Jones was up in the air with Wagner Gerritsen in the hills and mountains of East Tennessee.

It was Jones plan to ultimately fly the aircraft, owned by Touchstone Helicopters in California, to Utah, according to Touchstone.


Juli Wagner


Obituary for Julianne Wagner Gerritsen

Those who were lucky enough to know Juli Wagner in this life know that she can never be summated in words. Her presence on this earth was one deeply felt and forever remembered.

Juli was a bright, weird, witty, compassionate, independent, and free-thinking person. A person you always wanted to be around, because she made everything brighter, instilled everything with more fun. Her loved ones always had to be ready to laugh at themselves around her, because Juli didn’t let anyone take themselves too seriously. To her, nothing was too serious that it couldn’t be laughed at.

Juli used to say that she was 40% guy. She loved the Patriots, beer, hiking, camping, and irreverent comedies. Her burps have probably registered on the Richter scale. She could out-belch any man, woman or child in a 100-mile radius.

Her life was shaped by a fierce sense of independence. Juli never wanted to be told the answer to any of life’s questions; she wanted to learn them on her own, making and learning from her own decisions. From a young age, Juli had the determination to follow her own compass and broke every mold anyone ever tried to fit her into. She wasn’t afraid to make mistakes; she was only afraid of living a life that wasn’t authentically hers.

Juli was a spiritual person, and her life is evidence that compassion was her religion. She prioritized spending her time and resources fighting for a better world, a world safer for women, LGBTQ+, and racial minorities. Animal rights, reproductive rights, and environmental conservation were also causes close to her heart.

There are so many qualities that made Juli the incredible, unforgettable woman she was, but what will endure the most is the warmth of her heart, which could fill the infinite universe with its devotion, loyalty, and love. Her unapologetic self-acceptance inspired all she loved to more fully be themselves. Juli’s heart sheltered so many in its care, and for those lucky enough to be embraced by it, there was no better or safer place to be. To them, she was unfailingly generous, loyal, and protective.

Of all the love she gave in life, none exceeded the love for her son, Spencer. All the abundance of her heart she funneled into her boy, the most precious person in the world to her. It was important to her to raise him with intention: to think for himself, to question what’s accepted as true, to fight for others, and to love others just as freely as she did. She frequently took him to concerts, games, and on hiking and camping trips. She had the goal to take Spencer to every National Park. While it was always important to Juli to raise Spencer to be his own person, anyone with eyes can see her shining from his face. His goofiness, his goodness, his brightness, are all born from the love he’s received from his exceptional mother, a love that does not end with her passing.

The impact of Juli’s presence on her family and friends was undeniable while she lived, but is perhaps never more fully felt than in its devastating absence. Juli always said her friends were few, but the impact of her life leaves ripples spanning thousands of miles. She never could fathom how many people have loved her, and how many lives have been forever impacted because of her. Her loss is one that will reverberate in so many hearts forever, leaving us all with the aching loss and the beautiful memory of someone so special and irreplaceable.

Juli is survived by her son, Spencer Gerritsen (7) and his father Jeff Gerritsen to whom she was married from 2013-2018, grandmothers Corene Lasson and Karla Wagner, parents David and Lorilee Lasson Wagner, and 5 siblings: Jayme Wagner, Christian (Michelle) Wagner, Bryan (Kara) Wagner, Connie Wagner (Bradley) Ray, and Katie Wagner (Michael) Riding, and innumerable nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who were family, who all love her deeply.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Juli on Tuesday, Jan 11, from 10:00 – 11:00 am at The Manor at Riverwoods, 4801 N. University Ave. #370, Provo, Utah. To view services via live stream, please click on the following link: https://my.gather.app/remember/julianne-wagner-gerritsen

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Juli’s name to the following causes that were dear to her:
Humane Society of Utah: https://www.utahhumane.org/
Planned Parenthood Association of Utah: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-utah
The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/





KNOXVILLE, Tennessee (WVLT) - A Cocke County Sheriff’s Office police report details the tragic scene that first responders found once arriving at a helicopter crash in December near the Cocke Co. and Sevier Co. line.

Multiple agencies, including Cocke County and Sevier County Sherriff’s Office, Sevier County EMS and the National Park Service, responded to a crashed Robinson R44 helicopter on December 29, just shy of 3:00 p.m.

Once on the scene, CCSO Sgt. Keys and Deputy Sutton could hear a male yelling for help, the report said. They found a man and woman inside the remains of the helicopter, according to the report obtained by WVLT News.

“The male was yelling in pain, stating that he cannot move his legs and has a lot of pain in his lower back,” Sgt. Keys said.

Law enforcement personnel reportedly checked the woman and did not see any apparent injuries. However, they said she was “unresponsive and not moving.” After more officers, fire crews and paramedics arrived on the scene, the two were moved from the helicopter due to fuel leaking onto the ground, the report said.

“The male stated his name was Matt Jones and his passenger’s name was Julie Wagner,” Sgt. Keys stated in the report. According to officials, the man, identified as the pilot in the report, could not describe the events that occurred due to his injuries. He was taken to the hospital and the female was moved to be evaluated, according to the report.

A preliminary report from the Federal Aviation Administration differs. According to the report, the pilot died in the crash, which occurred for unknown reasons, and the passenger suffered severe injuries. WVLT News has reached out to the National Transportation Safety Board to confirm who was piloting the helicopter when it crashed but has not heard back as of Tuesday afternoon.

According to flightaware.com, the helicopter took off from the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge airport at 2:13 p.m. and was supposed to land at 2:26 p.m. but was last seen in the Sevierville area at 2:21 p.m.

With tail number N544SC, the helicopter is registered to November Alpha LLC, a company that owns Touchstone Helicopters, a helicopter leaser out of California.

Witnesses on the scene in December told WVLT News that the helicopter crashed near Baxter’s Orchard and was surrounded by “at least 40 fire trucks” when it first occurred.

A witness who said they live less than a tenth of a mile from the crash site spoke to WVLT News about the incident.

“As I was coming out of my house, you saw it just streak across; you couldn’t get to it fast enough,” the witness said. “It was incredibly loud, and you know something is wrong when something like that hits the side of a mountain that your house is attached to.”

WVLT News also spoke with a representative from Scenic Helicopter Tours, a tourist helicopter ride company in the area, who spoke on the flying conditions for the time of day it occurred.

“These weather conditions are not flyable,” they said.

This investigation continues and is being led by the NTSB.