Pilot Debrief

MURRAY RICHARD F AIRCAM BY LOCKWOOD near Taos, NM — 2012-07-07

Final reportCEN12LA427
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Date
2012-07-07
Location
Taos, NM, USA
Aircraft
MURRAY RICHARD F AIRCAM BY LOCKWOOD
Registration
N984AT
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to fly in gusty wind conditions at low altitude over mountainous terrain contrary to guidance in the airplane flight manual and subsequent loss of airplane control due to wind and turbulence.

NTSB narrative

A witness observed the kit-built airplane maneuvering at low altitude near a canyon. As it flew near the rim of a gorge, it rolled right, descended, and impacted the terrain. Postimpact examinations of the airplane did not reveal evidence of any preimpact malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported gusty wind conditions through the canyon, and weather data recorded at a regional airport 3.25 nautical miles northeast of the accident site, indicated wind from 160 degrees at 7 knots, gusting to 14 knots. Prevailing wind conditions through the canyon would likely result in strong updrafts and mechanical turbulence. The airplane model has a light wing loading, which decreases the stability of the wing in increased wind; the airplane flight manual cautions pilots to be aware of the potential for mechanical turbulence and its effect on the intended flightpath.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided flying near the edge of the gorge in windy conditions.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 5 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents5

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