Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary CEN12CA292

Pecos, TX, USA

Aircraft #1

N811JR

RISHER JIMMY E VANS AIRCRAFT RV-8

Analysis

As the pilot approached his destination airport, he listened to the airport’s automated weather reporting station. As he flew over the airfield, he noticed that the wind indicators showed that the wind was from a different direction than what was reported from the automated weather station. He then listened to the reporting station again and learned that the updated report agreed with the wind direction indicators on the airfield. The pilot then selected a runway for the landing approach based on the prevailing wind. The pilot reported that the landing and landing roll were straight and without complications; however, about three-quarters through the landing roll, he felt a large wind gust on the right side of the airplane. The pilot said that he did not have enough rudder authority to overcome the effect of the wind and that the airplane did a 180-degree left turn. During the 180-degree turn, the airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage near the main landing gear attachment point.

Factual Information

As the pilot approached his destination airport, he listened to the airport’s automated weather reporting station. As he flew over the airfield, he noticed that the wind indicators were indicating that the wind was from a different direction then what was reported from the automated weather station. He then listened to the reporting station again and learned the updated report agreed with the wind direction indicators on the airfield. The pilot then selected a runway, based on the prevailing wind, for the landing approach. The pilot reported that the landing and rollout were straight, and without complications; however, about three-quarters through the landing roll he felt a large wind gust on the right side of the airplane. The pilot added that he did not have enough rudder authority to overcome the effect of the wind and the airplane did a 180-degree left turn. During the 180-degree turn, the airplane received substantial damage to the fuselage near the main landing gear attachment point.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing with a crosswind.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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