Casualties unknown

1997-03-28: Bellanca 8KCAB (N1118E) — Warrenton, VA

Warrenton, VA, US

On March 28, 1997, a Bellanca 8KCAB (registration N1118E) was involved in an aviation accident near Warrenton, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions and failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. The crosswind was a related factor. 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 experienced a loss of control during a crosswind landing, resulting in a runway excursion after encountering gusts. Two landing attempts were made; the second ended off the runway.

Incident Details

According to the pilot, the wind at the time of the landing was approximately 16 to 18 knots, with the windsock indicating a direct 90-degree crosswind to runway 14. During the first landing attempt, the pilot initiated a go-around because the two main landing gear did not contact the runway simultaneously.

On the second attempt, the airplane encountered a gust of wind, which caused the tail to shift. The pilot applied aileron to correct the deviation. After passing trees located beside the runway, a second gust of wind affected the tail, resulting in the airplane departing the runway surface.

The pilot added engine power in an attempt to avoid a nose-over and to jump a ditch. Subsequently, the pilot shut down engine power in an unsuccessful attempt to avoid striking trees adjacent to the runway at approximately three-quarters of its length.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07562. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.