On May 11, 1996, an Aeronca 7BCM (registration N2606Z) operated by Osprey Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Bend, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during landing in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a wing stall and ground impact. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot executed an approach to runway 16 after observing strong westerly crosswinds. Three successive gusts caused the aircraft to depart the runway environment before a wing stall led to impact.
What happened
The pilot overflew the airport prior to landing and observed the windsock indicating a strong, westerly crosswind condition. Based on this assessment, the pilot initiated an approach to runway 16. Immediately before touchdown, the aircraft encountered three successive gusts. These gusts caused the aircraft to depart the runway environment to the east. During the final gust, a wing stalled, and the aircraft impacted the ground.
Findings
The accident was primarily attributed to the pilot's failure to maintain control during landing in strong crosswind conditions. The sequence of events began with the observation of hazardous weather, followed by the loss of directional control due to wind gusts. The subsequent stall resulted in the impact.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during landing in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a wing stall and ground impact.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 11 May 1996 Aeronca 7BCM accident near Bend, OR?
The pilot executed an approach to runway 16 after observing strong westerly crosswinds. Three successive gusts caused the aircraft to depart the runway environment before a wing stall led to impact.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 May 1996 involved an Aeronca 7BCM, registration N2606Z, operated by Osprey Aviation, at Bend, OR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during landing in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a wing stall and ground impact.
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