Casualties unknown

2004-07-31: Cessna 140 (N89617) — Robert Mueller — Wimauma, FL

Wimauma, FL, US

On July 31, 2004, a Cessna 140 (registration N89617) operated by Robert Mueller was involved in an aviation accident near Wimauma, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The improper in-flight weather evaluation by the student pilot resulting in a downwind landing and subsequent nose over. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot diverted to Wimauma Air Park for an annual inspection, circled, entered traffic for runway 09, and performed a three-point landing with full flaps. After a bounce and nose-over, the aircraft came to rest inverted. Witness reported varying wind conditions.

Incident Details

The pilot of an airplane diverted to Wimauma Air Park to consult with a mechanic regarding an annual inspection. After arrival, the pilot circled over the center of the runway and entered the traffic pattern for runway 09. The windsock at the time indicated calm wind.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported turning base and final, then touching down in a three-point attitude with full flaps extended. The airplane bounced approximately 1 foot. The pilot then eased forward on the control yoke, allowing the main landing gear to contact the runway while holding the control yoke neutral. The airplane suddenly nosed over, coming to rest inverted. The pilot exited the aircraft and noted that every few minutes a gust of wind from the west at 25–30 miles per hour occurred. The pilot further stated there was no discrepancy with the flight controls or brakes, and reported, "no problem with the aircraft."

Witness Account

A witness on the field reported that at the time of the accident, the wind was from the west at 5–7 knots with no gusts. The witness noted that during the day, the wind had been from either the southwest or west, and the wind direction was changing due to a thunderstorm located south of the field. The witness also reported that there are two fully operational windsocks on the airport, both located south of the south edge of runway 09/27 and near the approach end of runway 09.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040917X01453. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.