On April 30, 1997, a Beech F33A (registration N6733Y) operated by Jack Lindner was involved in an aviation accident near Mattituck, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions and improper flare, which resulted in a hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot landing on runway 19 in strong gusty winds encountered wind shear, causing the airplane to settle onto the runway on its left wing, nose gear, and propeller. No mechanical malfunction was found.
Event Details
The pilot observed the windsock before landing and was aware of a strong southwesterly wind at 15 knots with 25 knot gusts. An approach was made to land on runway 19.
Pilot Actions
During final approach, full flaps were selected, and an airspeed of 70 knots was maintained with an engine power setting of 15 to 16 inches of manifold pressure. The stall warning horn sounded intermittently throughout the final approach. The pilot stated that during the landing, he encountered wind shear, followed by the airplane settling to the runway on the left wing, nose gear, and propeller.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane did not disclose evidence of a mechanical malfunction, nor did the pilot report any.