Casualties unknown

2003-06-25: Beech 24 (N1485L) — James Kasperski — Rome, NY

Rome, NY, US

On June 25, 2003, a Beech 24 (registration N1485L) operated by James Kasperski was involved in an aviation accident near Rome, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the go-around, which resulted in an uncommanded left bank and subsequent impact with a tree. 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

An aircraft bounced during landing on a short runway, prompting a go-around. During climbout, an uncorrected left bank caused the left wing to strike a tree.

What happened

The accident occurred while the aircraft was attempting to land on a runway measuring 3,000 feet in length and 23 feet in width. Upon touchdown, the airplane bounced off the pavement. In response to this bounce, the pilot initiated a go-around procedure to attempt another landing.

During the subsequent climbout phase, the aircraft experienced an uncommanded left bank. The pilot did not correct this deviation in attitude. As a result of the uncorrected bank, the left wing of the airplane impacted a tree.

The investigation

Following the event, the pilot provided a report regarding the condition of the aircraft and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical anomalies with the airplane prior to or during the incident. Additionally, the pilot reported that the wind was shifting at the time of the accident.

Findings

The primary factor leading to the impact was the uncommanded left bank during the climbout phase. The failure of the pilot to correct this bank angle resulted in the left wing striking a tree. The bouncing on the runway necessitated the go-around, which placed the aircraft in a critical phase of flight where control was lost.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the go-around, which resulted in an uncommanded left bank and subsequent impact with a tree.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030710X01054. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.