Pilot Debrief

Vans RV6 near Coldwater, KS — 2018-07-20

Final reportCEN18LA286
Sign in to save
Date
2018-07-20
Location
Coldwater, KS, USA
Airport
3K8
Aircraft
Vans RV6
Registration
N306FR
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Approach

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of control while landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane in gusting wind conditions.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was attempting a wheel landing in the tailwheel-equipped airplane after a cross-country flight. He reported that winds were gusty during the long, straight-in approach and that he increased airspeed to compensate for the gusts. During the approach to landing, the airplane encountered turbulent air, and a gust of wind caused the airplane to balloon about 8-12 ft above the runway. The pilot initiated a go-around and said he added full power when the engine hesitated and "stuttered." The airplane settled, the right wing struck the ground, and the airplane spun before it came to rest. A postimpact fire ensued, which consumed most of the cockpit and fuselage. Thermal damage precluded a thorough engine examination.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted landing earlier due to wind conditions.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

Related mishaps