Aircraft Overturns During Runway Turn Due to Wind and Unfamiliar Handling

Casualties unknown • Rangely, CO, US

A pilot experienced an aircraft rollover while turning onto a runway during strong, gusty wind conditions following recent maintenance modifications.

What happened

While attempting to turn onto runway 24, the pilot encountered strong and gusty winds that pushed the aircraft toward the right side of the runway. As the right (downwind) wheel moved off the paved surface, the left wing lifted. This motion caused the propeller and the right wing tip to strike the ground, ultimately resulting in the aircraft flipping into an inverted position.

The pilot estimated the wind was originating from 220 degrees at 30 knots. This flight marked the pilot's first flight following the installation of a wing lift modification designed to extend the wing tips.

Findings

During the investigation, it was noted that the aircraft had been out of service in a maintenance shop for approximately 90 days prior to the accident. The pilot reported that he felt he had lost "the edge" due to a lack of recent flight time. Additionally, the pilot stated he was not familiar with the new handling characteristics resulting from the recently installed wing tip extensions.

Probable cause

The aircraft overturned because the pilot was unfamiliar with the new handling characteristics following a wing tip modification and encountered strong, gusty winds during a runway turn.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1989-05-29 Piper PA-22-150 accident near Rangely, CO?

A pilot experienced an aircraft rollover while turning onto a runway during strong, gusty wind conditions following recent maintenance modifications.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1989-05-29 involved a Piper PA-22-150, registration N8065D, operated by Lowell T Angle, at Rangely, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft overturned because the pilot was unfamiliar with the new handling characteristics following a wing tip modification and encountered strong, gusty winds during a runway turn.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28300. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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