Pilot’s Loss Of Control (Was) Due To A Wind Gust During Landing

Location: Bridgeport, Texas Accident Number: CEN23LA033
Date & Time: November 9, 2022, 11:30 Local Registration: N1855K
Aircraft: Luscombe 8E Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot reported that after a “normal” approach and landing, a “strong” wind gust “picked up the right wing.” The airplane entered a left skidding turn and departed the runway pavement. The right main landing gear collapsed in the grass area adjacent to the runway, and the airplane pitched up onto its nose before settling back onto the tail. The right-wing spar and fuselage sustained damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. At the time of the accident, the pilot was landing on runway 18 with wind from 190o at 7 knots, gusts to 15 knots.

Probable Cause and Findings
The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: The pilot’s loss of control due to a wind gust during landing.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov