Casualties unknown

1988-02-16: Gulfstream AA-5B (N26834) — Carney Aviation — Bridgeport, CT

Bridgeport, CT, US

On February 16, 1988, a Gulfstream AA-5B (registration N26834) operated by Carney Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Bridgeport, CT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing rollout, which resulted in a loss of control and subsequent ground impact. 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

During a touch and go landing, the aircraft touched down past the runway numbers. Directional control was lost during rollout, leading to a ground impact after liftoff.

What happened

The incident occurred during a touch and go landing maneuver. The aircraft initially touched down on its main gear slightly beyond the runway threshold markings. To maintain directional control during the initial phase of the rollout, the pilot applied full right aileron and left rudder inputs.

As the aircraft continued its rollout, the right wing began to rise unexpectedly while the left wing made contact with the runway surface. Recognizing the loss of control, the pilot advanced the throttle to full power in an attempt to execute a go-around maneuver. The aircraft successfully lifted off the ground; however, shortly after leaving the runway environment and initiating a left bank, the aircraft began to descend rapidly. It subsequently impacted the terrain at a steep 45-degree angle.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the landing rollout and the subsequent go-around attempt. Examination of the flight dynamics indicated that directional control was compromised immediately upon touchdown past the designated threshold area. The application of full right aileron and left rudder suggests an attempt to counteract a yawing tendency or maintain alignment with the runway centerline, but these inputs were insufficient to prevent the wing strike.

Findings

The primary factor contributing to the accident was the loss of directional control during the rollout phase. The aircraft's touchdown point beyond the runway numbers likely contributed to the instability. The subsequent impact with the ground at a high angle resulted in significant damage to the airframe. No further mechanical failures were identified as contributing factors.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing rollout, which resulted in a loss of control and subsequent ground impact.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25152. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.