On November 23, 2014, a BELLANCA 8KCAB operated by LEWIS DAVID S was involved in an aviation accident near Mesquite, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of directional control while landing in gusting crosswind conditions, which exceeded the airplane's maximum demonstrated crosswind velocity. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During landing on runway 17, a gust of wind pushed a tailwheel airplane left. The pilot corrected, but the airplane exited the right side, spun 180°, and the left wing sustained substantial damage. No mechanical malfunction reported. Crosswind exceeded maximum demonstrated velocity.
Accident Details
While landing on runway 17, a gust of wind pushed the tailwheel-equipped airplane to the left. The pilot attempted to correct back to the runway centerline; however, the airplane exited the right side of the runway and spun 180 degrees. The left wing impacted the ground and sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane and stated that he lost control during landing.
Weather Conditions
Around the time of the landing, the automated weather station reported the wind from 260 degrees at 18 knots, gusting to 24 knots.
Aircraft Information
A review of the airplane's flight manual revealed the maximum demonstrated crosswind velocity was 17 knots.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 23 Nov 2014 BELLANCA 8KCAB accident near Mesquite, TX?
During landing on runway 17, a gust of wind pushed a tailwheel airplane left. The pilot corrected, but the airplane exited the right side, spun 180°, and the left wing sustained substantial damage. No mechanical malfunction reported. Crosswind exceeded maximum demonstrated velocity.
Were there any fatalities in the 23 Nov 2014 BELLANCA 8KCAB accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Nov 2014 involved a BELLANCA 8KCAB, operated by LEWIS DAVID S, at Mesquite, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's loss of directional control while landing in gusting crosswind conditions, which exceeded the airplane's maximum demonstrated crosswind velocity.