Casualties unknown

2006-08-17: Stinson 108-2 (N9818K) — Grass Valley, CA

Grass Valley, CA, US

On August 17, 2006, a Stinson 108-2 (registration N9818K) was involved in an aviation accident near Grass Valley, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the pilot to maintain directional control on the landing rollout due to inadequate compensation for a gusty crosswind condition and an attempt to turn at an excessive taxi speed. 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

During landing roll, the airplane skidded off the runway, struck a cement culvert, and nosed over. The pilot reported variable winds and a gust during rollout, losing directional control.

Incident Overview

During the landing roll, the pilot attempted to exit onto a taxiway, but the airplane skidded off the runway, impacted a cement culvert, and nosed over. The airplane came to rest inverted 40 feet beyond the culvert.

Witness and Deputy Observations

A responding deputy noted a skid mark measuring 118.5 feet from the runway to the edge of the taxiway, continuing for an additional 35.7 feet into a dry grass area. The deputy reported that upon arrival, winds were from the south at about 8 knots, gusting to 16 knots. Witnesses stated that the airplane appeared to be traveling too fast after landing to safely turn onto the taxiway, and that the brakes locked up as the pilot attempted the turn, leading to the skid.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that during final approach, wind conditions were variable with up and downdrafts and a crosswind. He described the landing as normal, but stated that the airplane encountered a gust of wind during the rollout, and he was unable to maintain directional control.

Sequence of Events

The skid marks indicate the airplane traveled 118.5 feet from the runway to the edge of the taxiway, then continued 35.7 feet into the dry grass area. The airplane then struck a cement culvert and came to rest inverted 40 feet beyond the culvert. The sequence suggests a loss of control after landing, resulting in a runway excursion and collision with a fixed object.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20061004X01455. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.