UNIVERSAL STINSON 108 near Calverton, NY — 2016-04-30

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.

NTSB narrative

The private pilot stated that, during climbout at an altitude of about 1,200 ft mean sea level, the engine began to run roughly as though it had a partially fouled spark plug. He decided to perform a precautionary landing at a nearby airport with an asphalt runway that was 10,000 ft long and 200 ft wide. During the landing roll, a gust of wind lifted the right wing, which resulted in a ground loop. The airplane came to rest in the grass on the left side of runway. Although the wind conditions at the landing airport were not recorded, the recorded wind at a nearby airport about the time of the accident was variable at 5 knots.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Fuel management

First missed decision gate

Pilot could have chosen to land at Brookhaven Airport instead of Calverton.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control on ground · Landing-landing roll

Evidence available

• Photos
• 4 docket documents

Docket documents4

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Memorandum for Record – Telephone Interview, FAA Inspectorinterview
• Photo Arrayphotos
• Weather Reportreport

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