Summary
On January 11, 2018, a Swearingen SA227 (N561UP) was involved in an incident near Rock Springs, WY. All 1 person aboard were uninjured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this incident to be: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while taxiing in gusting tailwind conditions.
The pilot reported that, while taxing with a tailwind, he realized the airplane was moving too fast and applied brakes and reverse thrust of the engines. He added that he attempted to turn but was unable, and a strong crosswind "forced" the airplane to the left and off of the airport parking ramp. Subsequently, the airplane struck a lamp post and came to rest.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The automated weather observation system located at the accident airport reported, that about the time of the accident, the wind was from 280° at 21 knots, gusting to 27 knots.
This incident is documented in NTSB report GAA18CA098. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N561UP.
Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while taxiing in gusting tailwind conditions.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot reported that, while taxing with a tailwind, he realized the airplane was moving too fast and applied brakes and reverse thrust of the engines. He added that he attempted to turn but was unable, and a strong crosswind "forced" the airplane to the left and off of the airport parking ramp. Subsequently, the airplane struck a lamp post and came to rest.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The automated weather observation system located at the accident airport reported, that about the time of the accident, the wind was from 280° at 21 knots, gusting to 27 knots.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA18CA098