On March 25, 1989, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N4273Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Great Falls, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT IN COMPENSATE ADEQUATELY FOR WIND CONDITIONS, AND LANDING DESPITE HAVING BEEN ALERTED TO WIND CONDITIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After landing on runway 21, a pilot cleared to taxi down the active runway experienced a loss of control when the right wing lifted and the left wing struck the ground, flipping the aircraft. Winds were 20 knots gusting to 26 knots.
Event Details
The pilot reported that after landing on runway 21, he was cleared by air traffic control to taxi down the active runway until reaching a taxiway. While taxiing down the runway, the right wing of the aircraft lifted up and the left wing struck the ground. This caused the pilot to lose control of the aircraft, and it subsequently flipped over onto its back. The report did not specify any further details about the aircraft type or pilot actions.
Weather Conditions
The winds at the time of the incident were reported to be 20 knots, with gusts reaching 26 knots. The FAA control tower had advised the pilot of the current wind information upon initial contact. The wind conditions were noted in the sequence but the specific impact on the event was not elaborated.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 25 Mar 1989 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Great Falls, MT?
After landing on runway 21, a pilot cleared to taxi down the active runway experienced a loss of control when the right wing lifted and the left wing struck the ground, flipping the aircraft. Winds were 20 knots gusting to 26 knots.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 Mar 1989 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N4273Z, at Great Falls, MT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT IN COMPENSATE ADEQUATELY FOR WIND CONDITIONS, AND LANDING DESPITE HAVING BEEN ALERTED TO WIND CONDITIONS.
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