Probable Cause: An encounter with a downdraft while maneuvering at low altitude, which resulted in a collision with a fence.
aviation accidents
Study finds equipment failures continue driving GA fatal accidents
While causing a small fraction of GA accidents, equipment failures continue to be fatal for pilots, even while other causes have declined, according to a new study. Even more disturbing: Many of the engine failures happened well before TBO and in parts that aren’t checked during an annual inspection.
Helicopter destroyed when student panics
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the helicopter, which resulted in the right skid contacting the ground and a subsequent rollover.
Transition training flight ends in crash
Probable Cause: The flight instructor’s failure to maintain control of the airplane after encountering a wind gust during landing.
Sightseeing flight ends in river
Probable Cause: The pilot’s decision to operate the airplane at a low altitude over a river, and his failure to maintain clearance from the river while maneuvering.
Crosswind landing bends Cessna 172
Probable Cause: The first pilot’s failure to maintain a stabilized approach, in gusty crosswind conditions, in an environment favoring wake turbulence.
Improper maintenance leads to collapse of landing gear
Probable Cause: The improper maintenance of the main landing gear, which resulted in a collapse and overstress failure of the left main landing gear during landing.
Cowling strikes windshield after separating in flight
Probable Cause: A failure of the engine cowling right side latch pin and fasteners, which resulted in the partial separation of the engine cowling during flight.
CFI attempts go-around with full flaps extended
Probable Cause: The pilot’s improper decision to attempt a go-around with full flaps extended, which resulted in decreased climb performance and led to a collision with trees.