Casualties unknown

1982-06-06: Bellanca 8GCBC (N86993) — Donald L. Ferguson — Philip, SD

Philip, SD, US

On June 6, 1982, a Bellanca 8GCBC (registration N86993) operated by Donald L. Ferguson was involved in an aviation accident near Philip, SD. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempting to take off from a dirt road in strong winds experienced a ground loop, resulting in left gear failure and airframe damage.

Accident

A pilot flew to an open field to work on a truck. While working, the wind increased to the point that he was afraid to leave the aircraft on the ground. Upon entering the plane, the wind prevented him from turning and taxiing to a proper takeoff position. He then attempted to take off from a dirt road, heading east to west. He estimated the wind was from the southwest at 45 knots. During the takeoff roll, the wind caught the plane, causing it to ground loop. The left landing gear failed, and the airframe and fabric sustained damage.

Flight Details

The pilot had flown to the open field with the purpose of working on a truck. The wind conditions changed during his work, prompting him to decide to take off. He chose to use a dirt road for the takeoff, aligning east to west. The reported wind direction and speed were southwest at 45 knots, based on the pilot's estimate.

Conclusion

The incident resulted from the pilot's decision to take off in strong crosswind conditions from an unsuitable surface. The airplane ground lopped during the takeoff attempt, leading to structural damage. No further information was provided regarding injuries, aircraft type, or registration.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03130. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.