On September 18, 1988, an Aeronca 11AC (registration N86311) operated by Quinn, Jimmy M. was involved in an aviation accident near Athens, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during the landing roll due to a wind gust, which resulted in the aircraft overturning. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's elevated blood alcohol level. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A light aircraft was flipped onto its back by a 40 mph wind gust immediately after touchdown on grass. The pilot sustained minor injuries and tested positive for alcohol.
What happened
The aircraft touched down in the grass area to the left of the runway. Shortly after landing, a wind gust estimated at 40 mph struck the right wing, lifting it off the ground and causing the nose gear to collapse. The pilot exited the cockpit and attempted to prevent the fuselage from tipping completely over. Despite these efforts, the continued force of the wind caused the aircraft to fall onto its back.
Findings
Post-accident toxicology tests were conducted on the pilot's blood. The results indicated a blood alcohol concentration of 0.07%.
Safety message
Pilots should be aware that even after landing, strong wind gusts can cause significant damage to an aircraft if it is not properly secured or if it lands in an area with insufficient wind protection.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during the landing roll due to a wind gust, which resulted in the aircraft overturning. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's elevated blood alcohol level.