Casualties unknown

1991-09-28: Bellanca 7GCBC (N5505H) — Walter A. Kupferschmidt — Kaycee, WY

Kaycee, WY, US

On September 28, 1991, a Bellanca 7GCBC (registration N5505H) operated by Walter A. Kupferschmidt was involved in an aviation accident near Kaycee, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE CLEARANCE WITH THE VEHICLE AND THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO OBTAIN PROPER ASSISTANCE FOR THE TAKEOFF. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE 1) THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT PLANNING, 2) THE VEHICLE, AND 3) HIGH DENSITY ALTITUDE CONDITIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

After landing on a paved road, a pilot enlisted a rancher's aid for takeoff. High density altitude reduced performance. During takeoff, the pilot encountered a trailer, leading to a wingtip impact and ground collision.

Background

The pilot had landed on a paved road and subsequently secured the assistance of a rancher to help with the takeoff. High density altitude conditions existed at the time, which reduced the aircraft's takeoff performance.

Events

The pilot did not establish clear procedures with the rancher to ensure that the roadway would be clear for a sufficient length for takeoff. Additionally, clear communication procedures to be used prior to the takeoff evolution were not established. The pilot observed a hand signal from the rancher, which he perceived to be a go-ahead for his departure.

Sequence

During the takeoff roll, the pilot encountered a vehicle-drawn trailer on the road in his ground path. He attempted to climb and turn away from the vehicle and then maneuver away from terrain. However, adequate clearance was not available to ensure the aircraft would clear the trailer. The aircraft's left wingtip impacted the trailer, following which a loss of control and ground collision occurred.

Aftermath

The accident resulted in a ground collision after the wingtip strike. No further details are provided in the source regarding injuries, damage, or the aircraft's condition.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18214. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.