On January 9, 2006, a Bellanca 7KCAB (registration N36382) was involved in an aviation accident near Fallbrook, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the student pilot's inadequate compensation for a crosswind condition and his failure to maintain directional control. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a touch-and-go, a student pilot experienced a bounce, then a gust of wind lifted the right wing. Despite corrective inputs, the airplane veered off the runway and struck trees.
Event Details
During a touch-and-go takeoff and landing, the airplane veered off the runway and collided with trees. The student pilot reported that the airplane bounced slightly during the landing. In response, he pulled back on the control stick to cushion the second touchdown. After the airplane settled onto the runway, a gust of wind lifted the right wing, causing the left wing to make contact with the ground. This action rotated the airplane to the right, directing it toward parked airplanes in the transient area.
Pilot Actions
The student pilot attempted to correct the airplane's path by applying full left rudder and left brake. However, these flight control inputs did not affect the direction of travel. He then applied full throttle in an effort to become airborne again and steer the airplane back toward the runway. Despite this, the airplane collided with trees located on the east side of the airport.
Weather
Reported winds in the area were from 010 to 030 degrees at 4 to 10 knots.