On June 9, 2001, a Piper PA-20 (registration N7783K) operated by Gregory S. Mcadams was involved in an aviation accident near Winnemucca, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to obtain weather information or an in-flight advisory that would have described current wind information at the destination airport and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control during landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After touchdown in crosswind, aircraft became partially airborne, wing struck ground, main landing gear collapsed, leading to loss of control and runway excursion. Pilot reported calm winds despite ASOS recording 13-knot crosswind with 26-knot gusts.
Landing and Loss of Control
After touchdown on runway 32, the airplane became partially airborne again due to crosswind conditions. The right wing subsequently struck the ground. The right main landing gear collapsed when the airplane "hit hard." The pilot then lost directional control, and the airplane swerved off the runway.
Weather Conditions
The automated surface observation station (ASOS) at the airport reported winds from 270 degrees at 13 knots, with peak wind speeds of 26 knots recorded. The Winnemucca weather station service records were obtained and did not indicate any operational downtime. The pilot reported a wind gust and the direction as calm on the Accident Report form 6120.1/2. The pilot did not report receiving an in-flight advisory or observing the windsock before landing.
Preflight Actions
A weather briefing was received by the pilot 7 hours 45 minutes prior to the accident.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 9 Jun 2001 Piper PA-20 accident near Winnemucca, NV?
After touchdown in crosswind, aircraft became partially airborne, wing struck ground, main landing gear collapsed, leading to loss of control and runway excursion. Pilot reported calm winds despite ASOS recording 13-knot crosswind with 26-knot gusts.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Jun 2001 involved a Piper PA-20, registration N7783K, operated by Gregory S. Mcadams, at Winnemucca, NV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to obtain weather information or an in-flight advisory that would have described current wind information at the destination airport and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control during landing.
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