N7718V

On August 10, 2002, approximately 1000 mountain daylight time, an Aero Commander Callair A-9B single-engine, single seat, tailwheel equipped airplane, N7718V, was substantially damaged during final approach to runway 8 at the West Texas Airport near El Paso, Texas. The airplane was registered to and operated by the El Paso Soaring Society of El Paso. The commercial pilot, sole occupant of the airplane, was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a flight plan was not filed for the 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 local flight. The personal flight originated from the West Texas Airport approximately 0945.

On the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2) the pilot reported that he was performing a series of takeoff and landings to meet the insurance requirements for towing gliders in the Callair. During the second approach to runway 08, he was correcting for the crosswind, the airplane bounced onto the runway, veered to the right side of the runway, exited the runway, and came to rest on a sand dune. The pilot reported the wind was from the south-southeast approximately 7-10 knots.

Examination of the airplane by the FAA inspector, who responded to the accident site, revealed that both wings and the firewall were structurally damaged. The accident occurred during the pilot's first flight in the airplane.