The number of general aviation fatalities fell in 2010 to 450, down from 478 in 2009, according to recently released figures from the National Transportation Safety Board. Overall transportation fatalities decreased to 34,925 in 2010 from 35,994 in 2009. A majority of those deaths were on U.S. roads (32,885).
aviation accidents
Engine over-pressure leads to emergency landing
This December 2009 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others. Aircraft: Beech Bonanza. Injuries: None. Location: Santa Fe, N.M. Aircraft damage: Substantial. What reportedly happened: During a departure on a cross-country flight, the cockpit filled […]
Pilot fails to follow checklist
This December 2009 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others. Aircraft: Piper Super Cub. Injuries: 1 Serious. Location: Willow, Alaska. Aircraft damage: Substantial. What reportedly happened: The pilot said that he fueled the airplane just […]
First solo goes bad
The pilot’s lack of experience and the excessive taxi speed.
Thunderstorm proves fatal for Baron pilot
The non-instrument-rated pilot’s decision to continue VFR flight into instrument conditions, subsequently leading to a loss of control. The pilot’s lack of instrument experience, the weather conditions, and the night lighting conditions were factors.
Poor approach leads to poor landing
The pilot’s misjudging the altitude and distance during the approach that led to an undershoot and inadequate obstacle clearance.
Bad weight and balance calculation leads to accident
The inadvertent stall during takeoff. A contributing factor was the pilot’s failure to calculate the aircraft gross weight prior to the flight.
Lack of horizon proves fatal
The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane due to spatial disorientation. Contributing to the accident were the water and dark night conditions which resulted in the lack of ground references during the takeoff.
Herding cattle with plane fatal mistake
The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from power transmission lines while maneuvering. The pilot’s diverted attention and decision to maneuver at a low altitude were factors.