Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary ERA09CA091

Weirdales, FL, USA

Aircraft #1

N212DK

Kimball Enterprises Inc Pitts Model-12

Analysis

The pilot of the homebuilt airplane stated that he overflew the airport from the east and observed that the windsock was indicating a 90-degree crosswind of 15-20 knots for the airport's runway, designated 36/18. The pilot elected to land on runway 36 and entered the downwind leg of the traffic pattern. The pilot reported inputting a "significant" amount of slip to maintain centerline during final approach and flare. The airplane touched down on the right main landing gear first and then bounced off the grass strip. During the bounce, the crosswind forced the airplane toward the left, off the runway, and into a fence where the left wingtip struck a fence post. The airplane yawed, the wing hit the ground, and the airplane cart-wheeled, coming to rest inverted.

Factual Information

The pilot of the homebuilt Pitts Model 12 airplane stated that he overflew the airport from the east and observed the windsock was indicating a 90-degree crosswind for the airport's runway, designated 36/18. The pilot elected to land on runway 36 and entered the downwind leg of the traffic pattern. The pilot reported inputting a "significant" amount of slip to maintain centerline during final approach and flare. The airplane touched down on the right main landing gear first and then bounced off the grass strip. During the bounce, the crosswind forced the airplane toward the left, off the runway, and into a fence where the left wingtip struck a fence post. The airplane yawed; the wing hit the ground, and the airplane cart-wheeled," coming to rest inverted.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions. Contributing to the accident was the crosswind.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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