25 May 2012: SMITH ALLEN STORCH

25 May 2012: SMITH ALLEN STORCH — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Titusville, FL, United States

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

According to the pilot, he was performing the 6th or 7th touch-and-go landing of the day. The windsock indicated a slight crosswind from the left just prior to touchdown, but upon landing, a "very strong gust from the right" lifted the wing and pushed the airplane to the left. The pilot responded with adjustments in engine power, rudder, and aileron, but he was unable to maintain directional control. The airplane dragged a wing, ground looped, and the landing gear collapsed, which resulted in substantial damage to the wing and fuselage. After the accident, the pilot reported that there were no deficiencies in the performance and handling of his airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

  • cause Directional control — Not attained/maintained
  • Ability to respond/compensate
  • cause Pilot

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 010/15kt, vis 7sm

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