Casualties unknown

1994-09-01: Cessna 310L (N3272X) — Feuerhelm Transportation, Inc. — Agua Dulce, CA

Agua Dulce, CA, US

On September 1, 1994, a Cessna 310L (registration N3272X) operated by Feuerhelm Transportation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Agua Dulce, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft while reaching cross cockpit for the flap control. 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

A twin-engine aircraft on short final to Runway 22 drifted right, initiated a go-around, then rolled left and cartwheeled after the left wingtip struck the ground. No mechanical issues were reported.

Accident Sequence

The aircraft departed Van Nuys, California, on the morning of the accident, stopped at Agua Dulce to pick up the owner and passengers, then proceeded to Mammoth Lakes for a business meeting. On the return flight, while on short final approach to Runway 22, the aircraft drifted right of the runway. The pilot elected to perform a go-around and applied full power. Both the pilot and the aircraft owner stated that both engines responded with full power.

As the pilot reached for the flap selector switch, the aircraft began rolling to the left. Before the pilot could correct the left roll, the left wing tip collided with the ground, and the aircraft cartwheeled to a stop.

Pilot and Witness Accounts

The pilot reported that the windsock indicated the wind appeared to be directly down the runway. However, a pilot witness on the ground stated that the winds at the time were from 250 degrees at 15 knots, with higher gusts of unknown intensity.

Both the pilot and the aircraft owner stated there were no mechanical problems with the aircraft prior to the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02277. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.