Aircraft undershot airstrip following wind shear

Casualties unknown • Roche Harbor, WA, US

An aircraft struck the ground short of an airstrip after encountering a powerful downdraft during the final approach to landing.

What happened

While on short final for landing at a one-way-in airstrip, the pilot experienced a slight push from above and behind the aircraft. At the time of the accident, the wind was reported as being from 030 degrees at 12 knots, creating a quartering right tailwind.

In response to the initial disturbance, the pilot applied up-elevator and a small amount of power. Approximately one second later, the aircraft encountered what the pilot described as a powerful, yet smooth downdraft or wind shear, causing the airplane to descend toward the tall grass overrun.

The pilot applied full power and up-elevator in an attempt to recover; however, the aircraft continued its descent. The plane struck the ground at approximately 60 knots, roughly 50 feet short of the airstrip. During the subsequent landing roll, the nose gear collapsed, causing the airplane to nose down. The right wing made contact with the surface, and the aircraft spun approximately 60 degrees to the right. The pilot was not injured.

Probable cause

The aircraft encountered a powerful downdraft or wind shear during the final approach, resulting in an undershoot of the airstrip.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-05-18 Cessna 207 accident near Roche Harbor, WA?

An aircraft struck the ground short of an airstrip after encountering a powerful downdraft during the final approach to landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-05-18 involved a Cessna 207, registration N7405, at Roche Harbor, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft encountered a powerful downdraft or wind shear during the final approach, resulting in an undershoot of the airstrip.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08026. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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