On September 20, 1992, a Luscombe 8A (registration N39039) operated by Wirt, Daniel P. was involved in an aviation accident near Gates, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to land on a runway with an uphill gradient and crosswind component, resulting in touchdown too far down the runway and inability to stop before flipping over. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot in command touched down on the first quarter of the runway but was unable to stop the aircraft due to excessive speed, resulting in a flip-over during rollout.
What happened
Upon arrival at the airport, the pilot in command assessed the landing conditions and noted an uphill gradient along with a wind component from the west ranging between five and ten knots. Based on these factors, the pilot elected to land toward the east side of the airfield. The aircraft touched down within the first twenty-five percent of the available runway surface.
During the subsequent rollout phase, the pilot applied the brakes in an attempt to decelerate. However, the aircraft retained excessive speed despite braking efforts. Consequently, the aircraft flipped over during the landing roll.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to land on a runway with an uphill gradient and crosswind component, resulting in touchdown too far down the runway and inability to stop before flipping over.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Sept 1992 Luscombe 8A accident near Gates, OR?
The pilot in command touched down on the first quarter of the runway but was unable to stop the aircraft due to excessive speed, resulting in a flip-over during rollout.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Sept 1992 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N39039, operated by Wirt, Daniel P., at Gates, OR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to land on a runway with an uphill gradient and crosswind component, resulting in touchdown too far down the runway and inability to stop before flipping over.
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