On March 20, 1999, a Boeing Stearman A75N1 (registration N52558) operated by Russell L. Allen was involved in an aviation accident near Mesa, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for the gusty and variable crosswind condition, which led to a loss of directional control and an inadvertent ground loop. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a wheel landing on the third flight of the day, an aircraft turned 90 degrees left after touchdown, causing the right landing gear to collapse and the right lower wing to bend.
Incident Report
According to the pilot, the accident occurred on the third flight of the day. The winds were described as 'acting up.' Wind checks provided by the tower on final approach indicated winds from 140 degrees at 10 knots with gusts, and subsequently from 160 degrees at 15 knots.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported touching down in a wheel landing. After rolling a short distance, the aircraft suddenly turned 90 degrees to the left. The pilot stated that he encountered an abrupt and unexpected wind phenomenon and was unable to make any corrections.
Damage
The right landing gear collapsed, and the right lower wing was bent.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Mar 1999 Boeing Stearman A75N1 accident near Mesa, AZ?
During a wheel landing on the third flight of the day, an aircraft turned 90 degrees left after touchdown, causing the right landing gear to collapse and the right lower wing to bend.
Were there any fatalities in the 20 Mar 1999 Boeing Stearman A75N1 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Mar 1999 involved a Boeing Stearman A75N1, registration N52558, operated by Russell L. Allen, at Mesa, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inadequate compensation for the gusty and variable crosswind condition, which led to a loss of directional control and an inadvertent ground loop.
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