Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary ANC00LA129

ANCHORAGE, AK, USA

Aircraft #1

N1455H

Aeronca 15AC

Analysis

The pilot was taxiing the float-equipped airplane to parking after landing at a dedicated seaplane base. While turning, a strong, gusty wind pushed the airplane nose down into the water, and the airplane collided with a dock.

Factual Information

On September 21, 2000, at 1515 Alaska daylight time, an Aeronca 15AC airplane, N1455H, sustained substantial damage when it nosed down during taxi from landing at the Lake Hood Seaplane base, Anchorage, Alaska. The private pilot was not injured. The personal flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident, and no flight plan was filed. The pilot reported that after landing on the southeast waterway, he made a 90-degree turn to the left. During the turn, a gust of wind nosed the airplane down, and it collided with a dock. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing spar, rudder assembly, aileron, and windshield. The 1453 ADT hourly weather observation taken at the Ted Stevens-Anchorage International Airport, located one-half mile west of the accident site, reported winds from 150 degrees at 27 knots, gusting to 38 knots.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's inadequate compensation for high, gusty wind conditions during water taxi. Factors associated with the accident are high and gusty wind conditions.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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