Pilot Debrief

ERCOUPE 415-C near Gallup, NM — 2009-05-16

Final reportCEN09CA302
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Date
2009-05-16
Location
Gallup, NM, USA
Airport
GUP
Aircraft
ERCOUPE 415-C
Registration
N94300
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate preflight planning. Contributing to the accident was the high density altitude.

NTSB narrative

The pilot and passenger departed in a single-engine, 85-horsepower airplane from an airport with a density altitude that was later calculated to be about 8,666 feet. When the airplane was approximately 300 feet above ground level, the airplane experienced a loss of lift. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot selected a dirt road as a possible landing site; however, the airplane impacted terrain before reaching the road. The airplane came to rest in an upright position and the pilot and passenger were able to exit the airplane unassisted. An examination of the engine revealed no pre impact anomalies.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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