No fatalities

11 Sep 2009: CESSNA 305A — DAVIS BOB F — Helena, MT

Helena, MT, United States

On 11 Sep 2009, a CESSNA 305A operated by DAVIS BOB F was involved in an aviation accident near Helena, MT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged his height above the runway during the landing flare. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

During landing flare, pilot misjudged height causing hard touchdown. Aircraft veered side to side; pilot lost directional control. Pilot reported no rudder or tail wheel issues but cited sun glare as contributing to abnormal flare height.

Incident Details

During the landing flare, the pilot misjudged his height above the runway. This resulted in a flare that was higher than normal and a touchdown that was harder than normal. Immediately after the airplane made contact with the runway, it began to veer from side to side. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control.

Pilot Account

According to the pilot, there were no issues with the rudder or the tail wheel steering systems. He reported that the rudder and tail wheel functioned as expected. However, the pilot felt that the glare from the bright sun, toward which he was landing, had contributed to his abnormal flare height.

Probable cause

The pilot misjudged his height above the runway during the landing flare.

Contributing factors

Causes

Directional control — Not attained/maintainedIncorrect use/operationPilot

Other contributing factors

Contributed to outcome