On June 3, 1999, a Cessna 182Q (registration N234TT) was involved in an aviation accident near St. David, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain an adequate reference approach airspeed for the existing gusty wind conditions, and, his improper (uncoordinated) use of the pitch and power controls to arrest the resulting high sink rate. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced a greater than normal sink rate during landing on a short gravel airstrip with gusty crosswinds. The nose wheel struck a 3-foot rise at the runway's approach end, shearing off and causing the aircraft to nose over.
Incident Description
A landing incident occurred on a short gravel airstrip during approach in a 20-degree left crosswind at 10 knots, gusting to 16 knots. The pilot reported a normal approach and added 5 knots of airspeed to compensate for gusty conditions. Upon reaching the approach end of the runway, the pilot reduced power and raised the nose for landing.
Pilot Actions and Sequence of Events
The pilot stated that the airplane experienced a sink rate greater than normal. Attempts to arrest the sink with additional pitch control were unsuccessful. The sink continued, prompting the pilot to add power, but the aircraft touched down short of the runway's approach threshold. The runway sits on a 3-foot rise. Upon touchdown, the nose wheel struck this rise and was sheared off. The nose wheel strut then dug into the gravel surface, causing the airplane to nose over.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airframe and powerplant revealed no discrepancies.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Jun 1999 Cessna 182Q accident near St. David, AZ?
A pilot experienced a greater than normal sink rate during landing on a short gravel airstrip with gusty crosswinds. The nose wheel struck a 3-foot rise at the runway's approach end, shearing off and causing the aircraft to nose over.
Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jun 1999 Cessna 182Q accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Jun 1999 involved a Cessna 182Q, registration N234TT, at St. David, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain an adequate reference approach airspeed for the existing gusty wind conditions, and, his improper (uncoordinated) use of the pitch and power controls to arrest the resulting high sink rate.
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