Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA17CA190

Minden, NV, USA

Aircraft #1

N56FD

DAVIS FRANK R XENOS MOTORGLIDER

Analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during touchdown, the airplane "weathervaned to the left and full right rudder could not keep it on the runway." Subsequently, the main landing gear dug into the soft mud, and the airplane nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The automated weather observation system located on the accident airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was variable at 6 knots. The pilot landed on runway 34.

Factual Information

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during touchdown the airplane "weathervaned to the left and full right rudder could not keep it on the runway". Subsequently, the main landing gear dug into the soft mud and the airplane nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The automated weather observation system located on the accident airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was variable at 6 knots. The pilot landed on runway 34.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control in variable wind conditions.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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