On September 5, 1990, a Cessna T210N (registration N5241C) operated by Barbara B. Echemann was involved in an aviation accident near Durango, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE WHEN THE PILOT ENCOUNTERED TURBULENCE ON SHORT FINAL TO LAND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot, acting on a pilot report of calm winds, experienced a microburst on short final, resulting in a hard landing that collapsed the landing gear and damaged the wing spars. The aircraft came to rest on the left side of the runway.
Incident Overview
A private pilot attempted to land after receiving a pilot report indicating calm winds. On short final approach, the aircraft encountered a microburst that abruptly increased the rate of descent. The pilot attempted to check the high rate of descent but was unsuccessful. The aircraft struck the runway, resulting in a hard landing that collapsed the landing gear and damaged the wing spars. The airplane came to rest on the left side of the runway.
Environmental Conditions
After exiting the wreckage, the pilot reported that the wind was from 080 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 20 knots. A witness reported that the wind had changed from calm to strong in a few seconds at the time of the accident. The investigation revealed that lightning and virga had been observed in the area, and rain showers began within three minutes of the accident.
What happened in the 5 Sept 1990 Cessna T210N accident near Durango, CO?
A private pilot, acting on a pilot report of calm winds, experienced a microburst on short final, resulting in a hard landing that collapsed the landing gear and damaged the wing spars. The aircraft came to rest on the left side of the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Sept 1990 involved a Cessna T210N, registration N5241C, operated by Barbara B. Echemann, at Durango, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE WHEN THE PILOT ENCOUNTERED TURBULENCE ON SHORT FINAL TO LAND.
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