Casualties unknown

1999-08-05: Bellanca 8GCBC (N141CH) — Whitewright, TX

Whitewright, TX, US

On August 5, 1999, a Bellanca 8GCBC (registration N141CH) was involved in an aviation accident near Whitewright, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from a private airstrip, a tail-wheel airplane experienced an abrupt yaw after the main wheels lifted off. The pilot's attempted correction led to crow-hopping, and the right main landing gear collapsed, causing the right wing to impact the ground.

Accident Description

During takeoff from his private airstrip, the pilot of a tail-wheel equipped airplane lost control. The pilot reported that after the main wheels lifted off the ground, the airplane 'experienced an abrupt yaw.' In response, he attempted to counteract the yaw with opposite rudder input.

Sequence of Events

Following the abrupt yaw, the airplane began to 'crow hop, each time getting airborne a couple of feet, then returning to the ground.' The pilot was preparing to abort the takeoff when the right main landing gear collapsed. This resulted in the right wing impacting the ground.

Aircraft Damage

The collapse of the right main landing gear and the subsequent wing impact caused damage to the aircraft. No further details about the extent of damage were provided in the source.

Pilot Actions

The pilot attempted to correct the yaw with opposite rudder, but the crow-hopping motion continued. He was in the process of aborting the takeoff when the landing gear failure occurred.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19507. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.