On June 2, 2003, a Wsk Pzl Mielec M-18A (registration N135RA) was involved in an aviation accident near Reydell, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's encounter with a large whirlwind during initial climb, which resulted in the left main landing gear contacting the ground and the airplane nosing over. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An agricultural airplane nosed over after its left main landing gear struck the ground during initial climb from a private airstrip, following an encounter with a large whirlwind.
What happened
The aircraft was engaged in agricultural operations and was on initial climb from a private airstrip when it encountered a large whirlwind. The pilot attempted to correct by turning 90 degrees to the right. During this maneuver, the left main landing gear contacted the ground, causing the airplane to nosed over.
Findings
The accident occurred in an area where reported winds were from 130 degrees at speeds between 3 to 7 knots, located approximately 18 miles west of the accident site. The encounter with the whirlwind during the critical phase of initial climb contributed to the loss of control and subsequent ground contact.
Safety message
Pilots operating agricultural aircraft should remain vigilant for localized wind phenomena such as whirlwinds or microbursts, particularly during low-altitude operations. Maintaining adequate airspeed and being prepared for sudden changes in wind direction and velocity is essential for maintaining control during initial climb.
Probable cause
The pilot's encounter with a large whirlwind during initial climb, which resulted in the left main landing gear contacting the ground and the airplane nosing over.