Casualties unknown

1983-08-07: Republic RC-3 (N22BH) — Blakely Island, WA

Blakely Island, WA, US

On August 7, 1983, a Republic RC-3 (registration N22BH) was involved in an aviation accident near Blakely Island, WA. 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 reported encountering windshear at about 100 ft AGL on short final to Runway 01, resulting in a hard landing that sheared the landing gear and split the fuselage, causing a fuel leak and fire that destroyed the aircraft.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that while on a short final approach to Runway 01, windshear was encountered at approximately 100 feet above ground level. The aircraft experienced a rapid sink rate, and the pilot was unable to fully recover. Subsequently, the aircraft touched down hard in a level attitude. The impact sheared the landing gear and split the fuselage, rupturing the fuel tank. A fire ensued, and the aircraft was destroyed.

Windshear and Wind Conditions

According to the pilot, the windshear was encountered near a cliff at the approach end of Runway 1. The wind sock at the approach end of the runway was limp, while the wind sock for Runway 19 indicated a wind from the north at 15 to 20 knots. Additionally, there was reportedly a strong southerly wind at the water level about one-quarter mile from the airport.

Aftermath

The aircraft was destroyed by the impact and subsequent fire. No further details were provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, or occupants.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44360. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.