Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Gust of Wind Leading to Bounced Landing and Runway Excursion (N654Y)

Sparta, WI, US

On August 1, 1997, a Young RV-4 (registration N654Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Sparta, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and his improper recovery from a bounced landing, which resulted in an improper flare and hard landing. The gusty wind 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During landing, a gust of wind caused the airplane to bounce. After adding power, it bounced again. A go-around attempt resulted in propeller strike, engine vibration, and descent off runway.

Incident Overview

During the landing approach, the pilot reported that a gust of wind caught the airplane, causing it to bounce. In response, the pilot added power in an attempt to smooth the landing, but the airplane bounced a second time. The pilot then applied full power to execute a go-around. At that point, the pilot noticed the engine was vibrating, likely due to the propeller having struck the runway. The pilot subsequently reduced the power to idle. The airplane then descended and contacted terrain off the right side of the runway.

Pilot Actions

The pilot's actions included attempting to mitigate the bounce by adding power, and later initiating a go-around. After detecting engine vibration, the pilot reduced power to idle.

Outcome

The airplane descended and came to rest off the right side of the runway. No further information regarding injuries or damage was provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Aug 1997 Young RV-4 accident near Sparta, WI?

During landing, a gust of wind caused the airplane to bounce. After adding power, it bounced again. A go-around attempt resulted in propeller strike, engine vibration, and descent off runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Aug 1997 involved a Young RV-4, registration N654Y, at Sparta, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and his improper recovery from a bounced landing, which resulted in an improper flare and hard landing. The gusty wind was a related factor.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08576. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.