On August 19, 1998, a Silvaire LUSCOMBE 8F (registration N1616Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Tucson, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of the wrong runway for the wind conditions, his inadequate compensation for the existing quartering tailwind condition, and, his failure to maintain directional control. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft landed fast, veered left off runway 3, became airborne, touched down in dirt, went through a fence, and hit an occupied security truck at the Arizona Air National Guard compound. No mechanical discrepancies were found.
Incident Details
Witnesses reported that the aircraft landed fast on the main wheels and began veering left off the runway. The aircraft then became airborne, touched down in a dirt area, became airborne again, went through a chain link fence, and collided with an occupied security truck in the Arizona Air National Guard compound. The airport was using runway 11 for takeoffs and landings at the time.
Communication
During initial contact with the Tucson Air Traffic Control Tower, the pilot had requested runway 3 for landing. The tower issued the requested clearance, along with the wind direction and speed of 280 degrees at 7 knots.
Examination
The airframe and engine were examined following recovery with no discrepancies noted.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 19 Aug 1998 Silvaire LUSCOMBE 8F accident near Tucson, AZ?
An aircraft landed fast, veered left off runway 3, became airborne, touched down in dirt, went through a fence, and hit an occupied security truck at the Arizona Air National Guard compound. No mechanical discrepancies were found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Aug 1998 involved a Silvaire LUSCOMBE 8F, registration N1616Z, at Tucson, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's selection of the wrong runway for the wind conditions, his inadequate compensation for the existing quartering tailwind condition, and, his failure to maintain directional control.
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