On May 2, 1989, a Bellanca 7ECA (registration N9121L) operated by Rainbow Aero Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Albuquerque, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE WIND CONDITIONS BY THE PILOT, RESULTING IN A LOSS OF CONTROL DURING LANDING ROLL. VARIABLE AND GUSTING WINDS ARE CONSIDERED A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot on a cross-country flight experienced a loss of directional control after landing on a gusty runway. The aircraft came to rest inverted to the right of the runway.
Incident Overview
A private pilot was completing a cross-country flight when the accident occurred. According to the pilot, he had to switch runways due to gusting and variable winds. He selected Runway 21, a 3,100-foot by 40-foot asphalt runway.
Landing and Loss of Control
The touchdown seemed normal, but the pilot reported that he had to use full right rudder and then full left rudder to maintain directional control. A sudden gust from the left and rear of the aircraft blew dust and weeds across the runway and lifted the tail of the aircraft.
Final Position
The aircraft came to rest inverted and to the right of the runway.
Pilot Statement
The pilot provided the account of the events, noting the gusty wind conditions and the loss of control during the landing roll.