N14080

Substantial
None

WACO YMF-3S/N: 4209

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, March 30, 2013
NTSB Number
WPR13CA172
Location
Thermal, CA
Event ID
20130330X73730
Coordinates
33.539443, -116.155555
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing in a gusting crosswind.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
WACO
Serial Number
4209
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1934
Model / ICAO
YMF-3WACF
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
3
FAA Model
YMF-3

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
COMMAND AIRE LLC
Address
500 LINCOLN ST UNIT B3
City
SITKA
State / Zip Code
AK 99835-7655
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that prior to landing, the weather reporting system indicated a light and variable wind. While on final approach, the pilot noted that a left crosswind was present. As the tailwheel-equipped airplane was about 2 to 3 feet above the runway, it dropped abruptly onto the runway and bounced. The airplane settled back onto the runway and the pilot noted that he was able to maintain directional control as the airplane slowed down; however, shortly after, the airplane suddenly veered sharply to the right. Despite the pilot's control inputs, the airplane continued to veer to the right and exited the runway surface into soft sand. The left main landing gear collapsed, and the left lower wing struck the ground, which resulted in structural damage to the wing spar. The pilot added that shortly after the accident, the wind was from the southeast at about 15 knots and gusting. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# WPR13CA172