On August 14, 1989, a Consolidated Aeronautics Inc. LAKE LA-4-200 (registration N3128P) was involved in an aviation accident near Bountiful, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of directional control due to strong wind gusts during landing, resulting in contact with parked aircraft. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a straight-in approach to runway 16, the aircraft was lifted by strong wind gusts. The pilot applied power but lost directional control, striking two parked planes.
What happened
The pilot was conducting a drag arrival and initiated a straight-in approach to runway 16. Environmental conditions were severe, with winds estimated by the pilot to be variable at 20 knots and gusting up to 55 knots. During the landing roll, a powerful wind gust lifted the aircraft off the ground. In an attempt to regain control or continue the maneuver, the pilot applied power. The aircraft settled back onto the runway surface; however, directional control was lost. The aircraft subsequently struck two parked airplanes before coming to a final rest.
The investigation
The available source material does not provide specific mechanical findings or detailed investigative data beyond the pilot's report of events during the landing roll.
Probable cause
Loss of directional control due to strong wind gusts during landing, resulting in contact with parked aircraft.