Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary CEN09CA321

Brainerd, MN, USA

Aircraft #1

N3970G

CESSNA U206C

Analysis

According to the pilot, prior to touchdown on runway 30 (4,080 feet long by 75 feet wide), the amphibious airplane experienced a gust of wind from the right. The airplane touched down "very hard" on its left side and the left outside wheel of the main landing gear separated. The airplane came to rest on the edge of runway 30. The pilot reported that the winds were "variable and very gusty between ground level and 3,000 feet [above ground level]." Examination of the airplane revealed the fuselage was wrinkled on both sides.

Factual Information

According to the pilot, prior to touchdown on runway 30 (4,080 feet long by 75 feet wide), the amphibious airplane experienced a gust of wind from the right. The airplane touched down "very hard" on its left side and the left outside wheel of the main landing gear separated. The airplane came to rest on the edge of runway 30. The pilot reported the winds were "variable and very gusty between ground level and 3,000 feet [above ground level]." Examination of the airplane revealed the fuselage was wrinkled on both sides. The pilot had accumulated 4,333 total flight hours and 1,039 flight hours in the accident airplane.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control while landing in gusty winds.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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