On July 18, 1990, a Beech B-24-R (registration N2537W) operated by Aerotech Flight Services, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Cheyenne Wells, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control during a bounced landing due to crosswind conditions, which resulted in a loss of altitude and subsequent impact with the ground. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot elected to land early to close an open cabin door at 9,500 feet. A hard bounce and crosswind prevented a go-around, resulting in ground impact.
What happened
The flight was underway when the pilot's side door opened while the aircraft was cruising at 9,500 feet. Recognizing the safety implications of an open cabin, the pilot decided to execute a precautionary landing to secure the door before continuing.
Just prior to touching down on the runway, the pilot became aware of significant crosswind conditions. The airplane touched down hard and subsequently bounced high into the air. Attempting to recover from the bounce, full power was applied. However, the aircraft drifted to the right and failed to gain altitude despite the increased thrust.
Realizing a safe flight could not be maintained, the pilot retracted the flaps in an effort to reduce drag and improve climb performance. Despite these efforts, the airplane settled back down and impacted the ground.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control during a bounced landing due to crosswind conditions, which resulted in a loss of altitude and subsequent impact with the ground.