On January 22, 1993, a Beech 58P (registration N4458S) operated by William K. Gamble was involved in an aviation accident near Pacoima, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S POORLY PLANNED APPROACH, HIS USE OF AN EXCESSIVE AIRSPEED ON FINAL APPROACH AND HIS IMPROPER USE OF THE BRAKES. A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT WAS HIS LIMITED EXPERIENCE IN BOTH MULTI ENGINE AND IN THE ACCIDENT AIRCRAFT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing at an airport, a witnessed approach was 'hot, high and long.' The aircraft touched down far down the runway, skidded sideways, and the main landing gear collapsed. The pilot reported a tail wind, while tower controllers reported calm winds.
Observations
The accident was witnessed by air traffic controllers in the tower cab and by various pilots and mechanics at the airport. According to their observations, the aircraft's final approach was 'hot, high and long.' The aircraft touched down about two-thirds of the way down the runway and shortly thereafter began to skid. The aircraft then began to skid sideways and a main landing gear collapsed.
Pilot's Account
The pilot said that he encountered a tail wind on final which caused his airspeed to be excessive and the aircraft to float. He further reported that just after touchdown when the aircraft was skidding, he reached for the flap control lever.
Air Traffic Control Report
Air traffic controllers in the tower cab reported that the winds were calm at the time of the aircraft's approach and landing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 22 Jan 1993 Beech 58P accident near Pacoima, CA?
During landing at an airport, a witnessed approach was 'hot, high and long.' The aircraft touched down far down the runway, skidded sideways, and the main landing gear collapsed. The pilot reported a tail wind, while tower controllers reported calm winds.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Jan 1993 involved a Beech 58P, registration N4458S, operated by William K. Gamble, at Pacoima, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S POORLY PLANNED APPROACH, HIS USE OF AN EXCESSIVE AIRSPEED ON FINAL APPROACH AND HIS IMPROPER USE OF THE BRAKES. A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT WAS HIS LIMITED EXPERIENCE IN BOTH MULTI ENGINE AND IN THE ACCIDENT AIRCRAFT.
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