Casualties unknown

1996-12-07: Beech A23 (N3597R) — Conway, AR

Conway, AR, US

On December 7, 1996, a Beech A23 (registration N3597R) was involved in an aviation accident near Conway, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind during the landing, and his failure to remain clear of the tree during the attempted go-around. The crosswind and the proximity of the small tree were related factors. 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 pilot reported that during landing on runway 18, a right crosswind gust lifted the right wing, pushing the airplane left. During a go-around, the airplane impacted a tree, stalled, and came to rest in trees and underbrush.

Accident Description

According to the pilot, he was landing on runway 18 when a "right crosswind gust lifted his right wing." The airplane "was pushed to the left side of the runway," prompting the pilot to attempt a go-around. He stated that his airplane then impacted a small tree and "he pulled up and stalled the plane." The airplane came to rest in a group of small trees and underbrush, with the right wing resting on a chain link fence.

Pilot Account

The pilot provided a detailed account of the event. He noted that the crosswind gust occurred during the landing phase, causing a sudden lift of the right wing and a subsequent drift to the left. In response, he initiated a go-around. However, during the climb, the airplane struck a small tree. The pilot then reported that he pulled up, causing the airplane to stall. The final resting position was in a cluster of small trees and underbrush, with the right wing supported by a chain link fence.

Aircraft Damage

The airplane sustained damage from the impact with the tree and the subsequent stall and ground contact. The right wing came to rest on a chain link fence, indicating structural contact. No other damage details were provided by the pilot.

Weather Conditions

The pilot described the presence of a "right crosswind gust" during the landing. No further weather information, such as wind speed or direction from official sources, was included in the pilot's statement.

Sequence of Events

The event sequence began with a normal approach to runway 18. During the flare or touchdown phase, a crosswind gust affected the aircraft. The pilot attempted to abort the landing by applying power for a go-around. While climbing, the aircraft collided with a small tree. The pilot then pulled back on the controls, leading to an aerodynamic stall. The airplane descended into a group of small trees and underbrush, coming to rest with the right wing against a chain link fence.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07156. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.