On November 20, 1998, a Cessna 182C (registration N8620T) was involved in an aviation accident near St. Petersburg, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot misjudged the flare, resulting in a hard land and subsequent damage to the airplane. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Aircraft N8620T sustained substantial damage in a hard landing during special VFR operations. Pilot reported a downdraft during flare. Accident discovered a week later by FAA inspector.
Incident Details
The aircraft, bearing registration N8620T, was operating under a special visual flight rules (SVFR) clearance en route to St. Petersburg. According to the pilot, during the landing flare the airplane dropped abruptly as if struck by a strong downdraft. At the time of the accident, the reported weather at the airport included winds from 140 degrees at 5 knots and visibility of 1 3/4 statute miles with haze.
Discovery and Damage
The accident was not reported immediately. Approximately one week later, an FAA inspector conducting surveillance at a fixed base operator (FBO) observed the aircraft with its nose gear "severely bent aft." Upon inspection of the wreckage, it was determined that the airplane had sustained substantial damage. The FAA's report stated that the "pilot had a hard landing causing substantial damage to the aircraft structure."
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Nov 1998 Cessna 182C accident near St. Petersburg, FL?
Aircraft N8620T sustained substantial damage in a hard landing during special VFR operations. Pilot reported a downdraft during flare. Accident discovered a week later by FAA inspector.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Nov 1998 involved a Cessna 182C, registration N8620T, at St. Petersburg, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot misjudged the flare, resulting in a hard land and subsequent damage to the airplane.
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