Casualties unknown

1984-06-15: Gulfstream American AA-5B (N28812) — Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg, VA, US

On June 15, 1984, a Gulfstream American AA-5B (registration N28812) was involved in an aviation accident near Williamsburg, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during a go-around in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a collision with a dirt mound. 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

The aircraft struck a dirt mound during a go-around maneuver after experiencing gusty crosswinds and bouncing on the runway, resulting in significant damage to the airframe.

What happened

The accident occurred when the aircraft collided with a dirt mound while executing a go-around procedure. The pilot recalled that the wind conditions were variable and gusty throughout the approach. Specifically, the wind sock indicated a crosswind component ranging from 30 to 90 degrees relative to the runway heading.

After touching down, the aircraft bounced on one wheel and subsequently on the other. In response to the unstable landing, the pilot initiated a go-around. During this maneuver, the aircraft hit the ground to the left of the runway before striking the dirt mound.

The investigation

Post-acc examination revealed that the flaps were found fully extended at the time of impact. This configuration suggests the aircraft was set for landing or approach when the collision occurred.

Findings

The primary factors contributing to the accident included the variable and gusty wind conditions which likely caused the bounce during touchdown. The subsequent loss of control or inability to maintain a safe flight path during the go-around led to the collision with the terrain feature off the runway.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during a go-around in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a collision with a dirt mound.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39817. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.