On May 9, 1987, a Stinson 108-1 (registration N9016K) operated by Delaine G. Bowen was involved in an aviation accident near Idaho Falls, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a go-around in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a ground loop and separation of the left main landing gear strut. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost directional control during a go-around in gusty crosswinds, causing a ground loop and separation of the left main landing gear strut. The pilot had limited recent experience in the aircraft type.
What happened
The flight crew initiated a go-around maneuver but subsequently decided to attempt a relanding. During this phase, the aircraft encountered gusty crosswind conditions which compromised directional control. The loss of control resulted in a ground loop maneuver, causing the left main landing gear strut to separate from the airframe.
Findings
A review of the pilot's flight records revealed that he had executed only four landings in this specific make and model aircraft within the previous eight months. This limited recent experience likely contributed to the inability to maintain directional control during the critical go-around phase under adverse weather conditions.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a go-around in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a ground loop and separation of the left main landing gear strut. Contributing factors included the pilot's limited recent experience with the aircraft type.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 9 May 1987 Stinson 108-1 accident near Idaho Falls, ID?
A pilot lost directional control during a go-around in gusty crosswinds, causing a ground loop and separation of the left main landing gear strut. The pilot had limited recent experience in the aircraft type.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 May 1987 involved a Stinson 108-1, registration N9016K, operated by Delaine G. Bowen, at Idaho Falls, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a go-around in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a ground loop and separation of the left main landing gear strut. Contributing factors included the pilot's limited recent experience with the aircraft type.
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