Casualties unknown

1996-12-08: Lake LA-4 (N7632L) — Gallipolis, OH

Gallipolis, OH, US

On December 8, 1996, a Lake LA-4 (registration N7632L) was involved in an aviation accident near Gallipolis, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing, and his failure to maintain directional control, which resulted in a collision with a hangar and parked aircraft. 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 encountering snow and freezing rain, leading to ice accumulation on the airplane. During landing in gusty wind shifts, the airplane touched down hard, veered off the runway, and collided with a parked airplane and hangar.

Flight and Weather Conditions

The pilot reported that approximately 30 miles from the airport, the airplane encountered snow. About 10 miles out, the conditions transitioned to freezing rain, sleet, and snow. According to the pilot, the airplane was flying poorly because of ice but remained controllable. At one point, substantial right rudder was required to maintain level flight.

Approach and Landing

The pilot decided to approach high, knowing that the stall speed would be higher with ice accumulation. The normal approach speed for the airplane is 70 miles per hour over the runway threshold; the pilot crossed the numbers at about 82 miles per hour. While on final approach for Runway 23, the winds shifted from 230 degrees to 320 degrees, accompanied by hard buffeting gusts over hills to the pilot's right.

The pilot stated that as soon as the airplane entered ground effect, it stopped flying and came down hard on the left main landing gear. The pilot applied some power to regain control, but the airplane again came down hard, this time just off the runway in soft soil.

Collision and Final Position

Subsequently, the airplane came to a stop after colliding with a parked airplane and a hangar. No further details about the damage or occupants were provided in the report.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07229. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.