On May 26, 1993, a Bellanca 8GCBC (registration N2510Z) operated by Knauff & Grove, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Reedsville, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: TAILWHEEL LANDING GEAR SYSTEM COMPONENTS FAILING DUE TO THEIR WORN CONDITION RESULTING IN THE LOSS OF GROUND STEERING CAPABILITY. A FACTOR IN THIS ACCIDENT WAS A GUSTING CROSSWIND ENCOUNTERED DURING LANDING ROLL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing rollout, the airplane veered off the left side of the runway and entered a ditch. A gusting crosswind was present. The pilot's corrective inputs were ineffective. Post-accident inspection found the tail wheel steering assembly inoperative with worn internal components.
Accident Summary
A tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a runway excursion during the landing rollout. The aircraft veered left off the runway surface and entered a ditch adjacent to the runway. Meteorological conditions at the time included a gusting crosswind.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that as the tail wheel made contact with the runway, the airplane began to turn left. Despite applying right rudder and right brake in an attempt to correct the heading, the airplane continued to veer left and departed the runway.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, maintenance personnel examined the tail wheel steering assembly. The assembly was found to be inoperative. Further inspection of the components inside the assembly revealed that they were worn.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 26 May 1993 Bellanca 8GCBC accident near Reedsville, PA?
During landing rollout, the airplane veered off the left side of the runway and entered a ditch. A gusting crosswind was present. The pilot's corrective inputs were ineffective. Post-accident inspection found the tail wheel steering assembly inoperative with worn internal components.
Were there any fatalities in the 26 May 1993 Bellanca 8GCBC accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 May 1993 involved a Bellanca 8GCBC, registration N2510Z, operated by Knauff & Grove, Inc., at Reedsville, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
TAILWHEEL LANDING GEAR SYSTEM COMPONENTS FAILING DUE TO THEIR WORN CONDITION RESULTING IN THE LOSS OF GROUND STEERING CAPABILITY. A FACTOR IN THIS ACCIDENT WAS A GUSTING CROSSWIND ENCOUNTERED DURING LANDING ROLL.
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