On June 19, 2012, a CESSNA 170B operated by Inter-State Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Pullman, WA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane while landing in gusting crosswind conditions and the flight instructor’s delayed remedial action. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During tailwheel instruction, a student pilot lost directional control after landing in gusty winds. The CFI reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions.
Incident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) was providing tailwheel instruction to a pilot who intended to purchase the accident airplane. Prior to the incident, the pilot had completed 10.7 hours of instruction and 56 landings. The pilot planned to depart the following morning with the airplane owner, which the CFI stated created pressure to complete the pilot's training.
Sequence of Events
During practice of three-point landings, the wind was gusting to 19 knots. After touchdown, the airplane began tracking to the right. The CFI was monitoring the controls closely but consciously allowed the pilot to attempt recovery. The airplane then entered a swerve to the right. The CFI was unable to correct the swerve with full application of the left rudder and brake.
Mechanical Evaluation
The CFI reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.
Contributing factors
Causes
PilotInstructor/check pilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained
What happened in the 19 Jun 2012 CESSNA 170B accident near Pullman, WA?
During tailwheel instruction, a student pilot lost directional control after landing in gusty winds. The CFI reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions.
Were there any fatalities in the 19 Jun 2012 CESSNA 170B accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Jun 2012 involved a CESSNA 170B, operated by Inter-State Aviation, at Pullman, WA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane while landing in gusting crosswind conditions and the flight instructor’s delayed remedial action.
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