RV Accident reports from Jan 97

RV Accident reports from Jan 97' to Sept 99'

Accident occurred SEP-01-99 at BAYFIELD, CO
Aircraft: Wroblewski RV-4, registration: N95PW
Injuries: 2 Fatal

On September 1, 1999, approximately 1105 mountain daylight time, a Wroblewski RV-4 homebuilt, N95PW, was destroyed following an in-flight collision with terrain while maneuvering 6 miles northeast of Bayfield, Colorado. The private pilot and one passenger were fatally injured. The flight was being conducted under Title 14 CFR Part 91, and no flight plan had been filed. The aircraft departed Stevens Field, Pagosa Springs, Colorado, approximately 1030. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. According to a friend of the pilot, he departed Pagosa Springs in his airplane, N43FH. N95PW departed the airport shortly after and followed N43FH, as they had previously made arrangements to fly to Durango and back as a flight of two. During their return to the airport, N43FH radioed the other aircraft, but received no response. He circled back and located the wreckage of N95PW in a clearing of trees. Several witness reported seeing two aircraft flying in a southerly direction at a low altitude with one airplane trailing the other. The trailing aircraft was reported to be several hundred feet lower than the leading aircraft. Several minutes later, both aircraft returned and made another pass. One witness who was cutting wood 100 yards from the accident site stated that he observed the trailing aircraft perform a barrel roll, immediately followed by a vertical loop. He then observed the airplane diving toward the ground. According to a witnesses who owned property adjacent to the accident site, the airplane did not appear to have enough altitude to be able to recover from the maneuver.

Accident occurred JUL-10-99 at LAFAYETTE, OR
Aircraft: Vans RV-8, registration: N41VA
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

On July 10, 1999, approximately 1520 Pacific daylight time, a Vans RV-8 homebuilt aircraft, N41VA, constructed by/registered to and being flown by a private pilot, was destroyed when it collided with terrain during an uncontrolled descent preceded by an in-flight fire during descent one nautical mile north of Lafayette, Oregon. The pilot was fatally injured. Visual meteorological conditions existed and no flight plan had been activated. The flight, which was personal, was to have been operated under 14CFR91, and originated from Arlington, Washington, earlier on the date of the accident. A fuel stop had been made at Scappoose, Oregon, approximately 1445 hours. Witnesses reported observing the aircraft eastbound and in a shallow descent approximately 200-300 feet above ground trailing black smoke. One witness reported observing flames coming from the aircraft and the pilot exiting the aircraft. The aircraft was observed to execute a right spiraling descent, impacting the ground in a near vertical attitude. The pilot was found several hundred yards north of the aircraft's ground impact site. A post-crash fire consumed much of the aircraft. Post-crash examination of the wreckage confirmed a pre-impact fire in the lower-left, aft area of the engine compartment, forward of the firewall. Additionally, disassembly of the Aero Sport Power remanufactured O-360-A1A Lycoming engine revealed extensive particulate material, both ferrous and non-ferrous, within the engine's sump, oil finger screen and oil filter. The number one piston was absent, as was much of the number two connecting rod (crankshaft end) rod cap sections and retaining bolts. Metallurgical examination of engine components by the Board's Materials laboratory will be forthcoming.

Accident occurred JUL-08-99 at CRESWELL, OR
Aircraft: WALENTINE RV4, registration: N9233A
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

On July 8, 1999, at 1615 Pacific daylight time, a homebuilt RV4, N9233A, registered to and operated by the second pilot as a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight, initiated a forced landing to an open field shortly after takeoff from Hobby Field, Creswell, Oregon, after the engine experienced a loss of power. The aircraft landed hard and was substantially damaged. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The flight instructor and private pilot were not injured. The flight instructor reported that he was seated in the rear seat with the private pilot in the front seat. The flight instructor stated that the private pilot was practicing touch-and-go landings. During the takeoff from the fourth landing, the private pilot mistakenly partially pulled off the mixture control instead of the throttle. The engine lost power and a forced landing was initiated to an open field located about 2,000 yards north of the airstrip. The flight instructor reported that there is only throttle control in the rear seat and no mixture control.

Accident occurred JUL-07-99 at COOS BAY, OR
Aircraft: Williamson/Williamson RV-4, registration: N6NW
Injuries: 1 Serious.

On July 7, 1999, approximately 1600 Pacific daylight time, a Williamson/Williamson RV-4 amateur-built airplane, N6NW, experienced a loss of engine power on departure from North Bend, Oregon, and was substantially damaged in the ensuing forced landing near Coos Bay, Oregon. The commercial pilot-in-command, who was the aircraft's builder, received serious injuries in the accident. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed for the 14 CFR 91 personal flight. The pilot reported to an FAA inspector that he believed there were 6 gallons of fuel in the left tank and 16 gallons in the right tank at the time of departure. The pilot reported that at the time the engine lost power, about 1,000 feet above ground level, the engine was running on the left tank. The pilot reported that after the engine lost power, he switched to the right tank and turned the boost pumps on, but the engine did not start. In the forced landing attempt, the aircraft struck a post and a barbed-wire fence. The FAA inspector assigned to investigate the accident reported that in an inspection of the aircraft's fuel tanks, he could neither see nor smell any fuel in the aircraft's left tank, but that the right tank, which was breached, did contain fuel which spilled out when the aircraft was lifted. The FAA inspector reported that the accident aircraft had recently undergone a required condition inspection. At 1555, North Bend reported a temperature of 17 degrees C and a dewpoint of 9 degrees C.

Accident occurred JUL-07-99 at ARLINGTON, WA
Aircraft: Gadbury RV-6A, registration: N5987D
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

On July 7, 1999, at 1455 Pacific daylight time, an experimental Gadbury RV-6A, N5987D, impacted the terrain during takeoff from Arlington Municipal Airport, Arlington, Washington. The private pilot received fatal injuries, and the aircraft, which was owned and operated by the pilot, was destroyed by a post-impact fire. The 14CFR Part 91 personal pleasure flight to an unknown destination was being conducted in visual meteorological conditions. No flight plan had been filed, and there was no report of an ELT activation. According to Federal Aviation Administration personnel assigned to the open-air temporary tower adjacent to the runway, the pilot requested a VFR departure to the north and was cleared to takeoff on runway 16 at taxiway Bravo 2. The aircraft lifted off in less than 500 feet, climbed steeply to about 150 feet above the runway (AGL), and then banked sharply to the left. Immediately thereafter, the aircraft descended into the terrain just off the east side of the runway.

Accident occurred JUL-06-99 at HUNTERS, WA
Aircraft: PARKS RV-6, registration: N80274
Injuries: 2 Minor.

On July 6, 1999, approximately 1000 Pacific daylight time, the pilot of an experimental RV-6, N80274, lost control of the aircraft while landing in an open field about 15 miles north of Hunters, Washington. The private pilot and his passenger received minor injuries, and the aircraft, which was owned and operated by the pilot, sustained substantial damage. The 14 CFR Part 91 personal pleasure flight, which departed a private airstrip near Hunters, had been airborne for an undetermined period of time. The flight was being operated in visual meteorological conditions and was not on a flight plan. There was no report of an ELT activation. According to the pilot, he made a "really bad landing," and lost control of the aircraft while attempting to apply remedial actions

Accident occurred JUN-13-99 at JEANNETTE, PA
Aircraft: Flaherty RV-6, registration: N81081
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

On June 13, 1999, about 1642 Eastern Daylight Time, a homebuilt RV-6, N81081, was substantially damaged during a landing at Greensburg Jeannette Regional Airport, Jeannette, Pennsylvania. The certificated private pilot and pilot rated passenger were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight that originated from the Mount Pleasant/Scottdale Airport, Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania. No flight plan was filed for the personal flight conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. Full narrative available

Accident occurred JUN-12-99 at BRADFORD, PA
Aircraft: Morrow RV-6, registration: N173AB
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

On June 12, 1999, about 1230 eastern daylight time, a homebuilt RV-6, N173AB, was substantially damaged while landing at a private unlisted grass strip in Bradford, Pennsylvania. The non-certificated pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed for the local flight that departed the Bradford Regional Airport (BFD). The personal flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. The unlisted grass strip was located about 7 miles south of BFD, and the airplane was landing to the east. According to the pilot, just prior to landing, a "gust of wind" forced the airplane's nose gear down into the turf runway. The nose gear dug into the ground and the airplane flipped over onto it's back. The pilot stated he did not experience any mechanical malfunctions with the airplane. The pilot did not posses a pilot certificate. He reported 75 hours of total flight experience, with 7 hours in the make and model of the accident airplane. Additionally, the pilot's last medical certificate was issued in 1977. Winds reported at BFD, at 1253, were from 130 degrees at 7 knots.

Accident occurred MAY-21-99 at BOUNTIFUL, UT
Aircraft: Rich RV3-A, registration: N4461V
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

On May 21, 1999, approximately 1300 mountain daylight time, a Rich RV3-A homebuilt experimental airplane, N4461V, was substantially damaged during a forced landing following a loss of power near Bountiful, Utah. The private pilot, the sole occupant of the airplane, was not injured. The airplane was owned/operated by the pilot under Title 14 CFR Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local round-robin flight which originated approximately 90 minutes prior to the accident. No flight plan had been filed. According to the pilot, as he approached his final destination he experienced a power failure and performed a forced landing to a field. During the landing roll, the main landing gear impacted a ditch which subsequently separated the left main landing gear. Postaccident examination of the left wing revealed that the left main rear spar was bent.

Accident occurred MAY-14-99 at ALBUQUERQUE, NM
Aircraft: Bell R.L./Mason P.O. RV6, registration: N107BB
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

On May 14, 1999, approximately 1400 mountain daylight time, a Bell/Mason RV6, N107BB, was substantially damaged during a landing at Double Eagle II, Albuquerque, New Mexico. The instrument rated private pilot, who was the sole occupant, received minor injuries. The airplane was owned/operated by the pilot under Title 14 CFR Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the cross-country personal flight which originated from Ft. Worth, Texas. No flight plan had been filed. According to the pilot, he was approximately 150 feet agl on final for runway 22 when the airplane performed an aileron roll. He said that the left wing tip impacted the ground and the "fuselage hit the runway hard"; subsequently the main landing gear were splayed apart, the fuselage was wrinkled behind the wings, the left wing was bent up, the engine mount was broken, and the fire wall was wrinkled.

Accident occurred MAY-09-99 at APALACHICOLA, FL
Aircraft: BOONE RV6, registration: N34C
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

On May 9, 1999, about 1100 eastern daylight time, a Freeman RV-6 experimental airplane, N34C, registered to a private individual, impacted with a tree during a forced landing at the Apalachicola Municipal Airport, Apalachicola, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan was filed for the 14 CFR Part 91 local personal flight. The airplane was substantially damaged. The private-rated pilot reported minor injuries. The flight was originating at the time. Full narrative available

Accident occurred MAY-06-99 at CASA GRANDE, AZ
Aircraft: Widner RV-3A, registration: N5287U
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

On May 6, 1999, at 1550 hours mountain standard time, an experimental Widner RV-3A, N5287U, lost directional control on takeoff and veered off runway 5 at the Casa Grande, Arizona, airport. The aircraft, owned and operated by the pilot under 14 CFR Part 91, sustained substantial damage. The commercial pilot, the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions existed for the personal cross-country flight that originated from the Needles, California, airport the day of the accident and had made an en route fuel stop at Casa Grande. The flight was scheduled to terminate at the Deming, New Mexico, airport. Reported winds at the time of the accident were from 300 degrees at 4 knots. The pilot stated that he had stopped at Casa Grande airport for refueling purposes. He stated that on takeoff he lost directional control "possibly from the crosswinds."

Accident occurred MAY-06-99 at TRUTH OR CNSQNC, NM
Aircraft: DAVIS RV-6A, registration: N8117Q
Injuries: 1 Minor.

On May 6, 1999, approximately 1145 mountain daylight time, a Davis' Vans RV-6A, N8117Q, was substantially damaged when it collided with terrain while landing at Truth or Consequences Municipal Airport, Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. The commercial pilot, the sole occupant aboard, sustained minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed for the test flight being conducted under Title 14 CFR Part 91. The flight originated approximately 0900. Full narrative available

Accident occurred MAY-06-99 at TRUTH OR CNSQNC, NM
Aircraft: DAVIS RV-6A, registration: N8117Q
Injuries: 1 Minor.

Accident occurred APR-12-99 at RED BLUFF, CA
Aircraft: PARKER RANDS RV-4, registration: N6420E
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

On April 12, 1999, at 0900 hours Pacific daylight time, an experimental Parker Rands RV-4, N6420E, was destroyed during an emergency off-airport landing following loss of engine power during cruise flight near Red Bluff, California. The commercial pilot, and sole occupant, was not injured. The aircraft departed from Buchanan Field airport in Concord, California, at an unknown time. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight, which was destined for the Rogue Valley International Airport in Medford, Oregon. The aircraft was operated by the pilot/owner under 14 CFR Part 91 of the Federal Aviation Regulations. No flight plan was filed. The Safety Board received notification of the accident on April 23, 1999. According to the Federal Aviation Administration preliminary notification, the engine lost power after the seam of the oil cooler opened up in-flight, resulting in loss of the engine oil supply and oil starvation of the engine. The pilot attempted to make a forced landing in a field, and, during the landing, collided with a hard object and ground looped.

Accident occurred APR-05-99 at CEDAR CREEK, NC
Aircraft: VANS RV-6A, registration: N239RV
Injuries: 1 Minor.

On April 5, 1999, about 1130 eastern daylight time, an experimental VANS RV-6A airplane, N239RV, nosed over while attempting a landing on a private grass strip near Fayetteville, North Carolina. The personal flight was operated by the private pilot under the provisions of Title 14 CFR Part 91, and visual flight rules. Visual Meteorological Conditions prevailed at the accident site with no flight plan filed. The airplane sustained substantial damage and pilot received minor injuries. The flight departed Rocky Mount, North Carolina, at 1015 enroute to Ft. Myers, Florida. Full narrative available

Accident occurred APR-01-99 at PAYSON, UT
Aircraft: Sly RV-6A, registration: N80287
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

On April 1, 1999, approximately 1700 mountain standard time, a Sly RV-6A homebuilt aircraft, N80287, owned and operated by the pilot, was substantially damaged after impacting terrain following a loss of engine power while in cruise flight near Payson, Utah. The airline transport rated pilot and one passenger were not injured. The local area personal flight was being operated under Title 14 CFR Part 91, and no flight plan was filed. The flight originated from the Spanish Fork-Springville Airport, Spanish Fork, Utah, at 1645. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed.

Accident occurred FEB-26-99 at VACAVILLE, CA
Aircraft: COOPER VANS RV-6, registration: N36VR
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

On February 26, 1999, about 1330 hours Pacific standard time, an experimental Vans Cooper RV-6, N36VR, sustained substantial damage when it collided with terrain during a forced landing approximately 15 miles north-northwest of Vacaville, California. The airline transport pilot and his passenger were not injured. The aircraft was owned, operated, and constructed by the pilot. The local area personal flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 and originated at Vacaville about 1310. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The pilot stated he was selling the aircraft. He departed his home base of Hanford, California, about 1030 that morning and arrived in Vacaville approximately 1 hour 15 minutes later. He flew the 1/2-hour demonstration flight from Vacaville and encountered no problems. He wanted to take a friend, who had helped him build the aircraft, up for a local flight. He departed Vacaville at 1310 and had been flying for 20 to 25 minutes when he detected a faint metallic clicking sound coming from the engine. The sound grew louder and he detected a noticeable loss of thrust. This was followed by loud metallic sounds, and white smoke was observed in the cockpit. The smoke smelled like oil and was cleared by opening the fresh air vents. The propeller kept spinning a short while; then the engine seized. He tried to turn it with the starter, but it would not turn. He was over rough terrain so he glided to a spot on the shoreline of Lake Berryessa. Impact with the uneven terrain collapsed the nose wheel. The front of the aircraft sustained impact damage and the firewall was buckled. The left wing was wrinkled and the empennage was buckled under the left horizontal stabilizer. Several engine pieces were along the wreckage path. The aircraft and its Lycoming O-360 engine had accumulated a total time of approximately 70 hours.

Accident occurred JAN-29-99 at MADERA, CA
Aircraft: COELHO RV4, registration: N770RF
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

On January 29, 1999, at 1601 hours Pacific standard time, a Coelho RV4, N770RF, collided with a Cessna 150L, N6979G, while taxiing for takeoff at the Madera, California, airport. The Cessna 150L was stationary in the run-up area conducting a pretakeoff engine and systems check. The Cessna 150L was owned and operated by Madera County Aircrafters and rented by the pilot for a local area personal flight. The Coelho RV4 was owned and operated by Rocket Factory, Inc., and was also departing for a local area personal flight. The Cessna 150L was destroyed and the Coelho RV4 sustained minor propeller damage. Neither of the pilots, the sole occupants of their respective aircraft, were injured. Both aircraft were originating at the time of the on-ground collision. According to a statement from the pilot of the Cessna 150L, she was stopped in the run-up area conducting a pretakeoff engine run-up. The Coelho RV4, a conventional landing gear-equipped airplane, taxied into the tail of the Cessna 150L and the propeller damaged the entire Cessna's empennage.

Accident occurred DEC-06-98 at OKEECHOBEE, FL
Aircraft: Michael L. Thibault RV-4, registration: N62632
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

On December 6, 1998, at 1601 eastern standard time, a Michael L. Thibault, RV-4, N62632, an experimental airplane, registered to the pilot, collided with a mailbox during an emergency landing near the Okeechobe Airport in Okeechobee, Florida. The personal flight was operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 CFR Part 91 with no flight plan filed. A review of weather data recovered from the nearest reporting facility disclosed that visual weather conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The airplane sustained substantial airframe damage, and the commercial pilot was not injured. The flight initially departed Okeechobee, Florida, at 1430.

Accident occurred NOV-21-98 at EDGEWATER, MD
Aircraft: Burgess RV-6, registration: N956DB
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

On November 21, 1998, at 1743 eastern standard time, a homebuilt RV-6, N956DB, was destroyed when it impacted in Beard's Creek near Lee Airport in Annapolis, Maryland. The certificated private pilot was fatally injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a flight plan was not filed. The personal flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91, and originated at Lantana Airport, West Palm Beach, Florida, at 0930. The intended destination was Annapolis, Maryland. According to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Inspector, the pilot obtained a weather briefing from the Miami Flight Service Station for a flight to Maryland. His route of flight according to a route detail found in the wreckage, included fuel stops in Brunswick, Georgia, and Elizabethtown, North Carolina. His final destination was Annapolis, Maryland. According to fuel records obtained from Glynco Jetport Airport, Georgia, the pilot purchased 21.7 gallons of fuel. There were no other records of any additional fuel stops. There were several witnesses who heard an airplane over fly their homes at a low altitude, but they did not see the airplane. One of the witnesses reported that it was dark, and she heard an airplane engine sputtering, and a "loud crackling sound" in what she stated sounded like an airplane hitting trees. Another witness said he saw an airplane flying just above the trees near to the airport. He felt that the airplane was "extremely low." He continued to look towards the airport to see if the airplane had touched down, but it disappeared from his view. Search efforts located the airplane, about 0300, the following morning in Beard's creek. The airplane came to rest inverted in about 18 feet of water, and 4 feet of mud about 1/4 mile off the departure end of runway 30. The airplane was removed from the creek, and towed to the shore where it was examined. The examination included confirming flight control continuity to the right aileron and elevator from the cockpit. Both wings remained attached to the fuselage, except both wing tips which separated. The engine was lubricated and both propeller blades were straight. There was no external evidence of any catastrophic engine failure. According to the Airport Facility Directory, it states in part, "Runway 30 threshold relocated 323 feet; 1,704 feet of runway available at night." Examination of the accident site area revealed trees to the right of the extended centerline of runway 30. The wreckage was located to the right of the centerline, beyond the tree line. Examination of the tree line did not disclose any broken limbs or branches. The reported winds from Baltimore Washington International Airport were 280 degrees at 7 knots. According to the pilot's log book, he logged over 1,345 hours of total flight experience which included 31 hours in make and model. The last entry in the log book was dated August 13, 1998, and there was no record that the pilot had ever flown into this airport. According to the airplane tachometer, the airplane had accumulated 54.6 hours of total flight time. The wreckage was moved to a facility in Maryland for further examination.

Accident occurred OCT-10-98 at APOPKA, FL
Aircraft: W.S. Bowers, Jr. RV-4, registration: N741WB
Injuries: 2 Fatal.

On October 10, 1998, at 1711 eastern daylight time, an experimental homebuilt RV-4 airplane, N741WB, collided with the ground near Apopka, Florida, while performing an aerobatics maneuver. The personal flight was operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 CFR Part 91, with no flight plan filed. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. Examination of the airplane at the accident site revealed substantial airframe damage. The private pilot and passenger were fatally injured. The flight departed Bob White Field, in Zellwood, Florida, at 1515.

Accident occurred SEP-26-98 at ARBUCKLE, CA
Aircraft: Reynolds RV-3, registration: N244WW
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

On September 26, 1998, about 0810 hours Pacific daylight time, an experimental Reynolds RV-3, N244WW, en route to Atwater, California, experienced an in-flight breakup over Arbuckle, California. The aircraft was destroyed and the pilot, the sole occupant, received fatal injuries. The aircraft was being operated as a personal flight by the pilot/owner when the accident occurred. The flight originated from Redding, California, about 0730 on the morning of the accident. According to witnesses, instrument meteorological conditions prevailed at the accident site and no flight plan was filed. A witness, positioned about 1 mile from the scene of the accident, heard an aircraft fly overhead but he was unable to establish visual contact due to the presence of overcast ceiling and misting precipitation, which also reduced visibility. Another witness, positioned about 0.5 miles from the scene of the accident, reported that the aircraft broke through the bottom of an overcast cloud layer, accompanied with increased engine sounds and with parts separating from the aircraft. During the descent, the right wing separated from the aircraft and it subsequently crashed in a grove of almond trees on the west side of Interstate 5. He estimated the base of the overcast to be about 400 feet agl. The panel mounted G-meter read +7 G's and -4.5 G's. The pilot had reportedly planned to attend an EAA Fly-In that was being held at Castle airport near Atwater.

Accident occurred AUG-29-98 at CHAPEL HILL, NC
Aircraft: Bibb RV-4, registration: N144KT
Injuries: 1 Minor.

On August 29, 1998, about 1010 eastern daylight time, a Bibb RV-4 homebuilt aircraft, N144KT, registered to an individual, collided with trees while making a forced landing following loss of engine power at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, while on a Title 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The aircraft received substantial damage and the private-rated pilot received minor injuries. The flight originated from Manassas, Virginia, the same day, about 0850.

Accident occurred AUG-12-98 at ROSEBURG, OR
Aircraft: Six/Huber RV-6, registration: N26CH
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

On August 12, 1998, approximately 1600 Pacific daylight time, a Six/Huber RV-6 experimental-category airplane, N26CH, was substantially damaged in a hard forced landing following a complete loss of engine power at the Roseburg Regional Airport, Roseburg, Oregon. Neither the private pilot-in-command nor his sole passenger were injured in the occurrence. Visual meteorological conditions were reported at Roseburg at 1553. The flight, which had just departed Roseburg bound for Medford, Oregon, was operated under 14 CFR 91, and the FAA did not report any record of a flight plan being filed for the flight.

Accident occurred AUG-08-98 at BAINBRIDGE, GA
Aircraft: Dean R. Fellows VANS RV-6, registration: N245DF
Injuries: 1 Serious.

On August 8, 1998, about 1420 Eastern Daylight Time, a Dean R. Fellows Vans RV-6, homebuilt airplane, N245DF, collided with terrain during an emergency landing in Bainbridge, Georgia. The airplane was operated by the commercial pilot under the provisions of Title 14 CFR Part 91, and visual flight rules (VFR). Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a VFR flight plan was filed. The pilot sustained serious injuries, and the airplane received substantial damage. The flight departed Mobile, Alabama, at 1200.

Accident occurred AUG-01-98 at OSHKOSH, WI
Aircraft: Preece VANS RV-6, registration: N122BP
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

The pilot of the other airplane was taxiing for departure on a north-south taxiway for a departure from runway 18R. He reported that the ATIS advised all traffic to watch the flagmen for ATC instructions. The pilot reported that he was watching the flagman as instructed. The pilot reported, "The flagman gave me a signal to stop as I approached the intersection, and then changed to the right turn signal. I started my right turn. The flagman gave me no indication that there was an aircraft in my path, or that I should do anything other than complete the turn." He reported that he was about halfway through the turn when his propeller struck the right wingtip of the RV-6. He reported, "I was confident that this area was clear because the flagman, with a clear view, directed me to make the turn." The pilot of the RV-6 was not aware of the conflict until the Cessna's propeller hit the right wing and aileron of his airplane.
Probable Cause
the pilot of the other airplane did not maintain proper clearance.

Accident occurred JUL-06-98 at HUNTER, NY
Aircraft: ROSS RV6A, registration: N67KH
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

The pilot was landing uphill on a gravel runway with variable/gusty winds. He reported the airplane encountered a gust of wind after touchdown, which raised the left wing. The pilot was unable to regain directional control before the airplane departed the runway. The terrain on the right side of the runway dropped below the level of the runway, and the airplane became momentarily airborne as it headed toward trees at runway height. Subsequently, it collided with the trees and was damaged.
Probable Cause
the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. The gusty/variable wind condition was a related factor.

Accident occurred JUN-14-98 at SEDONA, AZ
Aircraft: Blackmore RV-4, registration: N813R
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

On June 14, 1998, about 1145 hours mountain standard time, an experimental Blackmore RV-4, N813R, collided with mountainous terrain under unknown circumstances south of Sedona, Arizona. The aircraft was destroyed and the pilot, the sole occupant, sustained fatal injuries. The aircraft was operated by the pilot/owner at the time of the accident. The flight originated from the Sedona airport on the morning of the accident. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The accident site was about 100 feet below a saddle in the vicinity of Cathedral Rock.

Accident occurred MAY-24-98 at RIPLEY, CA
Aircraft: Van's Aircraft, Inc. RV-8, registration: N58RV
Injuries: 2 Fatal.

On May 24, 1998, at 0630 hours Pacific daylight time, an experimental RV-8, N58RV, experienced an in-flight structural separation and crashed 1 mile south of Ripley, California. The aircraft was destroyed and the pilot and pilot-rated passenger sustained fatal injuries. The aircraft was being operated by Van's Aircraft, Inc., as a business flight when the accident occurred. The flight originated from a private agricultural strip in Blythe, California, at 0620. Visual flight conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan had been filed. A relative of the passenger reported that on departure the pilot was seated in the front seat, while the passenger was in the back. The aircraft is equipped with dual controls, however, the throttle can only be operated from the front seat. An eyewitness, about 1.5 miles northwest of the crash site, reported that he heard the sound of an engine surging and looked to see where the sound was originating. He saw a yellow aircraft flying straight and level, about 1,000 feet agl. The aircraft was on a southbound heading, about 1 mile east of his location. He estimated that he watched the flight for over a minute when he saw something fall from the aircraft. This was followed almost immediately by a loud boom that he described as sounding like a "shotgun." The aircraft's nose suddenly pitched up about 45 degrees, then abruptly nosed over as it began to roll. The aircraft entered a nose-down spin and continued in a vertical descent until impact. A postaccident inspection of the aircraft by the Safety Board found an outboard section of the left wing about 0.2 miles northeast of the main wreckage. The main spar of the left wing was fractured at a point inboard of the aileron and outboard of the flap. The main spar of the right wing was also fractured about the same location, but remained attached by the wing's outer skin. According to the kit designer, the wing design had previously been statically tested to failure, which had required in excess of 9 G's.

Accident occurred MAR-08-98 at ELBERT, CO
Aircraft: DUCI'S VANS RV-3, registration: N99HV
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

A witness said the pilot was performing aerobatics, and while maneuvering, the aircraft (acft) went into a nose high attitude as if it was coming to the top of a loop. He said one of the wings suddenly "folded" up, and "It looked as if it had bent at the connection between the wing and the fuselage. . . ." The acft then entered an uncontrolled descent & crashed. Metallurgical exam of the right wing revealed overload fractures in the lower & upper main spar caps, which were indicative of upward failure; initial fracture was in the lower cap area. Twisting & upward bending of the main upper spar cap was noted, as well as "overstress separation." Five bolt holes were found at the inboard portion of the upper & lower main spar caps with no respective bolts or remnants of such bolts. No deformation or distortion of any of the bolt holes was noted, but circular markings were noted on the forward side of both outboard holes, & similar indications were noted on the aft side of 2 other holes in the lower main spar cap. The investigation did not determine whether the missing bolts had failed & separated during the breakup, or if they had not been reinstalled during previous maintenance/modification. All rivets in both the upper & lower main spar caps were broken through the shanks "consistent with direct shear separations. No evidence of cracking or breaking of rivet heads . . . was noted." This was 1 of 3 RV-3s built by Tony Duci & the 2nd to structurally fail in flight. Acft had been modified as an RV-3A, but had not been re-certified as such. Aerobatic gross weight limit (1,050 lbs) had been exceeded by an estimated 120 lbs.
Probable Cause
in-flight failure of the right wing spar (for an undetermined reason) as the pilot was performing aerobatic flight. The airplane's excessive gross weight (for aerobatics) was a related factor.

Accident occurred NOV-25-97 at BLAIR, NE
Aircraft: Hall RV-6, registration: N36AH
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

The pilot said that during the initial takeoff, as the tail wheel came off the ground, the airplane began to "fishtail." When the pilot made rudder corrections, the airplane's directional control got worse. The airplane became airborne entering an uncontrolled left turn. The pilot said that he did not have "positive response" when he turned back parallel to the runway. The pilot reduced power to land. The nose of the airplane tracked right away from the runway heading. The pilot tried to turn back to the left, but the airplane's controls would not respond. The pilot reduced the power to idle and impacted the ground in a left nose down slip approximately 20 feet left of the runway. Examination of the airplane's rudder controls revealed a fracture outside of the weld attaching the base of a T-shaped bar beneath the pilot's left rudder pedal to the torque tube connecting the left rudder pedals to the left and right seats. Further examination of the broken parts revealed a fatigue crack on the torque tube, originating on the rear outside portion of the fracture.
Probable Cause
a fatigue failure of the torque tube outside of the weld and the fractured pilot's side left rudder pedal.

Accident occurred NOV-01-97 at WELLINGTON, NV
Aircraft: Rodgers/Gaust RV-6, registration: N44JR
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

On November 1, 1997, at 0930 hours Pacific standard time, an experimental Rodgers/Gaust RV-6, N44JR, owned and operated by the pilot, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Wellington, Nevada. Neither the private pilot nor the passenger was injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed during the personal flight, and no flight plan was filed. The flight originated from Bishop, California, at 0830.

Accident occurred OCT-26-97 at SCIO, OR
Aircraft: Beckham RV-4, registration: N160HB
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

On October 26, 1997, approximately 1550 Pacific standard time, a Beckham RV-4 experimental aircraft, N160HB, being flown by a private pilot, was destroyed during an inflight collision with terrain following a loss of control while in cruise near Scio, Oregon. The pilot was fatally injured. There was no fire. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed. The flight, which was personal, was to have been operated under 14CFR91, and originated from the pilot's private airstrip several miles northeast of the accident site approximately 1530.

Accident occurred OCT-08-97 at DANSVILLE, NY
Aircraft: Ford RV-4, registration: N17PQ
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

On October 8, 1997, about 1730 eastern daylight time, a homebuilt RV-4, N17PQ, was substantially damaged when it impacted the ground during a forced landing on initial climb out from the Dansville Municipal Airport, Dansville, New York. The certificated private pilot/owner was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the personal flight conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.
The pilot fueled the airplane the day prior, and then flew it for 1.5 hours. He stated that there should have been about 2.5 hours of fuel remaining. The next day, he flew for 20 minutes from the Williamson-Sodus Airport, Williamson, New York, to the Dansville Municipal Airport. The pilot reported that he was on the ground for 5 minutes, making adjustments to the rudder tab. The pilot taxied to the runway, performed an engine run-up, and did not recalled any abnormalities. During the takeoff, at about 300 feet agl, the engine lost power and the propeller stopped in the horizontal position. The pilot executed a right 180 degree turn because of the surrounding terrain. Witnesses stated that the airplane impacted the ground in a 20 degree nose down attitude. The main landing gear collapsed aft, and the airplane came to a stop in about 200 feet.A Federal Aviation Administration Inspector examined the wreckage. The examination revealed that fuel was found in the carburetor bowl and in the fuel line leading to the engine driven pump. No fuel was found in the line from the engine driven pump to the carburetor. The Inspector released the wreckage to the owner/builder. The owner/builder reported to the Inspector that he disassembled the airplane and engine, and found the engine driven fuel pump incurred an internal mechanical malfunction.

Accident occurred SEP-21-97 at GOLDENDALE, WA
Aircraft: BARRIGAR RV-6, registration: N812AB
Injuries: 2 Minor.

The pilot flared early and touched down approximately 500 feet beyond the east end of the 3,490-foot-long paved runway. During the touchdown the aircraft bounced 6-8 times, and then veered off the left side of the runway. Once the aircraft's left main wheel entered the graveled area alongside the runway, the pilot applied full power and attempted a go-around. The aircraft continued to diverge from the runway edge, rolled down an embankment alongside the runway and, upon rolling through soft terrain, nosed over. The pilot reported that he should have added power after the first bounce and aborted the landing at that time.
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control. Factors contributing to the accident were: the pilot's delayed initiation of a go-around maneuver, downhill, and soft terrain.

Accident occurred SEP-06-97 at WOODLAKE, CA
Aircraft: Hallam RV-6, registration: N93SJ
Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor.

The aircraft's engine lost power soon after takeoff, and an off-airport landing was made 3 miles from the departure airport. During the landing, the airplane hit a fence, then came to rest at a ditch. The pilot, who had recently purchased the airplane, said that after takeoff, he had switched fuel tanks, and then the engine stopped. He said that at departure, one fuel tank was about 1/2 full and the other was about 1/4 full, totaling 21 gallons. An FAA inspector examined the aircraft about 4 hours after the accident. He found no fuel in the left tank of the aircraft, only minimal fuel in the right tank, and no evidence of tank rupture or smell of fuel on the ground. The fuel selector was in the left tank position. The pilot reported he was "certain" there was fuel in the aircraft, and suspected the engine stoppage was due to a blocked fuel vent or a vapor lock in the fuel supply. A carburetor icing chart showed that conditions were conducive for moderate carburetor icing at cruise power.
Probable Cause
failure of the pilot to accurately determine the quantity of fuel onboard the airplane before flight, and subsequent loss of engine power due to fuel starvation, which resulted in a forced landing.

Accident occurred AUG-01-97 at SPARTA, WI
Aircraft: Young RV-4, registration: N654Y
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

The pilot reported that during landing, a gust of wind caught the airplane, and it bounced. He added power to smooth out the landing, but it bounced once again. He then added full power in an attempt to go-around, but he noticed the engine was vibrating from the propeller having struck the runway. He reduced the power to idle, and then the airplane descended and contacted the terrain off the right side of the runway.
Probable Cause
the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and his improper recovery from a bounced landing, which resulted in an improper flare and hard landing. The gusty wind was a related factor.

Accident occurred JUL-31-97 at SEMINOLE, TX
Aircraft: Bauer VANS RV-4, registration: N37RV
Injuries: 2 Minor.

The pilot reported that the engine lost power after takeoff while he switched the fuel selector from the right to left fuel tank. The pilot stated that when he moved the fuel selector valve to switch tanks he failed to "line the fuel selector valve correctly and therefore [caused] fuel starvation to the engine." The pilot attempted to restart the engine, but was unsuccessful. Due to the low altitude of the airplane, the pilot was unable to attempt a second restart, and he executed a forced landing to a road in a residential area. The airplane struck a power line, impacted on and slid across an asphalt road, and struck a fence.
Probable Cause
loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of the pilot's improper use of the fuel tank selector.

Accident occurred JUL-28-97 at MIDDLETON, WI
Aircraft: Jenkins RV-6, registration: N126JM
Injuries: 2 Minor.

The pilot reported that he "misjudged the height of trees at landing end of runway 30." The pilot got low on the final approach and hit a tall bush. The airplane flipped over into a ditch. The pilot reported that nothing was wrong with the aircraft and the engine was running properly.
Probable Cause
the pilot was too low on final approach and hit the high vegetation.

Accident occurred JUL-27-97 at FRANKTOWN, CO
Aircraft: WONDER RV-6, registration: N443MW
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

During landing roll, at a private grass air strip, a bump was encountered and the nose of the aircraft pitched down. The aircraft nosed over and came to rest inverted causing damage to the right wing and vertical stabilizer.
Probable Cause
the pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during landing roll. A factor was the uneven runway surface.

Accident occurred JUL-27-97 at HARRISBURG, IL
Aircraft: Kearns RV-6, registration: N35K
Injuries: 1 Minor, 1 Uninjured.

The pilot stated that while on final approach, "The right landing gear hooked the power line and sheared off the wheel and landing gear." He reported that the impact with the power line, "Spun airplane around and cartwheeled." He reported that the airplane struck the ground and came to rest in an up-right attitude. Post accident investigation revealed no anomalies with the accident aircraft.
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance. A factor was the marked transmission wire.

Accident occurred JUL-23-97 at ROSEMOUNT, MN
Aircraft: Goble RV-4, registration: N36JG
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

A witness reported that after the airplane took off, he observed it in a steep climb, followed by a level off at about 100 ft agl. The airplane then entered a 90-degree turn to the left, followed by an erratic flight path with both wings rocking back and forth. It then went into a steep nose down, 45-degree right wing down attitude, before impacting terrain. An examination of the engine and flight controls did not reveal any preexisting failure or malfunction which would have resulted in the accident.
Probable Cause
the pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed after takeoff, which resulted in a stall/spin and collision with the terrain. His excessive climb rate after takeoff was a related factor.

Accident occurred JUL-04-97 at HERMANN, MO
Aircraft: WEBER RV-4, registration: N1142J
Injuries: 1 Serious.

On the third final approach to land the airplane on a hilly turf runway, the pilot discovered that the throttle cable had jammed at a reduced power setting. The jammed throttle prevented him from either reducing power to land or from applying full power to go around. The pilot successfully flew past power lines and poles before initiating a turn to avoid timber on a ridge, but was unable to clear rising terrain due to inadequate power for the climb. He said that he stalled the wings prior to impact with terrain. The pilot said things happened so fast on final that he did not have time to think about shutting off the engine. The airplane impacted in a steep hay meadow approximately 50 feet above the highest point on the runway. Investigators found the throttle cable jammed due to broken strands of cable inside the sheath. The throttle cable, which had been salvaged from another airplane, showed extensive chafing at several places on the sheath from the previous installation.
Probable Cause
the pilot's inadequate in-flight planning/decision and encounter with a stall. Related factors were the chafed throttle cable, which became jammed; and failure of the pilot to perform an engine shut down in order to land on the runway.

Accident occurred JUN-28-97 at MUSCLE SHOALS, AL
Aircraft: Sloan RV-6, registration: N626BA
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

The pilot stated before takeoff, he noted bales of hay located along both sides of the takeoff area. He began the takeoff roll on the backside of a small hill. As the airplane came over the top, the pilot realized the airplane's heading was too far to the left. Full right rudder did not correct the situation. The pilot pulled back on the yoke, the airplane became airborne, and the left wing collided with a hay bale.
Probable Cause
the pilot's failure to see-and-avoid the bales of hay duirng the takeoff roll, which resulted in an in-flight collision with a bale at liftoff and subsequent in-flight collision with terrain.

Accident occurred JUN-19-97 at WOODS CROSS, UT
Aircraft: Ross/Stonecipher VANS RV-6, registration: N345JE
Injuries: 1 Minor.

After initiating a go-around at 100 feet above ground level, the aircraft struck a bird on the pilot's side of the aircraft canopy. The bird penetrated the canopy and struck the pilot's face. The pilot retarded power and cleared his vision, and decided he would not be able to land without overrunning the runway into fences and deep ditches. He attempted to continue the go-around, but then noted an increase in aircraft vibration. He therefore elected to land the aircraft in a hay field just beyond the departure end of the runway. The grass was approximately 2 feet high in the forced landing field. The airplane flipped over during the forced landing.
Probable Cause
a bird strike, which penetrated the aircraft canopy. High grass (hay crop) in the forced landing area was a related factor.

Accident occurred MAY-26-97 at BAINBRIDGE, OH
Aircraft: DRESBACH RV-4, registration: N61CD
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

Witnesses reported that they observed the airplane make a normal takeoff. According to them, after starting to climb, the airplane entered a descent and crashed. They reported seeing the airplane in a right-wing low position before it impacted the ground in a nose down attitude. Examination of the airplane and the engine did not reveal any abnormalities. The pilot's last log book entry was dated 11/22/95. On 11/29/95, he had coronary artery bypass surgery. On 5/15/97, the FAA Aeromedical Certification Division denied the pilot a medical certificate "due to objective evidence of myocardial ischemia by radionuclide scintigraphy." An autopsy report of the pilot noted "minimal cardiac tissue" for examination. Toxicology testing detected unspecified levels of metoprolol (a medication which reduces the heart rate response to stress) in the pilot's blood and liver fluid.
Probable Cause
failure of the pilot to maintain control of the airplane during the initial climb after takeoff. The pilot's physiological conditions was a possible factor.

Incident occurred MAR-18-97 at LANCASTER, TX
Aircraft: Homebuilt RV-6, registration: N139TX
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

The Stinson L5, N57789, was taxiing inbound from a local flight, and the RV-6, N139TX, was taxiing outbound when the wing of Stinson contacted the turning propeller of RV-6. According to pilot statements, the pilot of Stinson did not have visual contact with RV-6 until after the collision. The pilot of RV-6 did have visual contact with Stinson at the last instant, and attempted an avoidance maneuver prior to the collision.
Probable Cause
Failure of the pilot of the Stinson L5, N57789, to see and avoid the RV-6, N139TX.

Incident occurred MAR-18-97 at LANCASTER, TX
Aircraft: Homebuilt RV-6, registration: N139TX
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

Accident occurred FEB-02-97 at YORK, PA
Aircraft: Berry VANS RV-4, registration: N42BN
Injuries: 2 Uninjured.

The pilot/owner of a homebuilt Vans RV-4 airplane flew to his destination airport. He stated that he entered the down wind traffic pattern for landing, and observed an airplane on the taxiway, short of the runway. When he turned from base to final approach, the airplane on the ground taxied onto the runway. The RV-4 pilot elected to do "S" turns to give the airplane on the runway time to depart, but it remained on the runway, so the RV-4 pilot initiated a go-around. Power was applied, and the wings were leveled, but the airplane continued to descend and contacted the ground. The airplane was damaged during ground contact, but it became airborne again and continued flying. The pilot then landed without further incident.
Probable Cause
the pilot's delay in initiating a go-around, and his failure to maintain airspeed, which resulted in an inadvertent stall/mush and contact with the terrain.

Accident occurred JAN-08-97 at THE DALLES, OR
Aircraft: Barriger RV-6, registration: N812AB
Injuries: 1 Uninjured.

The pilot circled over an airstrip owned by his employer. When the people he worked with came out of the hanger, the pilot made a low circling pass and hit a powerline.
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a powerline during an intentional low altitude maneuver

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