Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA18CA061

Caldwell, TX, USA

Aircraft #1

N1780K

LUSCOMBE 8

Analysis

The pilot reported that, during the right downwind in the traffic pattern, he was about 1/4 mile from the runway, which was "too close." He added that, "during a poorly planned and executed base to final approach," he performed an "uncoordinated" right bank about 45°, and the right wing dropped, which resulted in a descending right roll. He attempted to recover, but the airplane impacted terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and right wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The pilot reported that, during the right downwind in the traffic pattern, he was about one quarter mile from the runway, which was "too close". He added that, "during a poorly planned and executed base to final approach", he performed an "uncoordinated" right bank at about 45°, and the right wing dropped, which resulted in a descending roll to the right. He attempted to recover, but the airplane impacted terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and the right wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to maintain yaw control and the exceedance of the airplane’s critical angle of attack in the traffic pattern, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall/spin.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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