On August 11, 2003, an Aviat A-1B (registration N233HY) was involved in an aviation accident near Driggs, ID. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft while landing in gusty wind conditions associated with a dust devil. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot reported that a dust devil encountered during the landing rollout caused the left wing to rise and the tail to lift, resulting in the aircraft flipping over and coming to rest inverted.
What happened
The private pilot was conducting a routine flight when the incident occurred during the final approach phase. As the aircraft aligned with the runway for landing, the pilot observed a dust devil positioned approximately one-half to three-quarters of the way down the runway surface.
Upon touchdown and during the subsequent rollout, the aircraft encountered significant turbulence associated with the dust devil. The force caused the left wing to rise abruptly, followed by the tail lifting off the ground. This sequence of events resulted in the aircraft flipping over completely, coming to rest in an inverted position on the airfield.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft while landing in gusty wind conditions associated with a dust devil.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 11 Aug 2003 Aviat A-1B accident near Driggs, ID?
A private pilot reported that a dust devil encountered during the landing rollout caused the left wing to rise and the tail to lift, resulting in the aircraft flipping over and coming to rest inverted.
Were there any fatalities in the 11 Aug 2003 Aviat A-1B accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Aug 2003 involved an Aviat A-1B, registration N233HY, at Driggs, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft while landing in gusty wind conditions associated with a dust devil.
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