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NTSB Report
April 9, 2009 · Piper PA20 115 · N7653K
Scranton, PA
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
April 9, 2009
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Scranton, PA
Aircraft
Piper PA20 115
Tail Number
N7653K
Operator
Thomas John Malinchak
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ERA09CA246
During initial climb at 300 feet above ground level, smoke began to enter the cockpit area, emanating from the windscreen defroster vent. The pilot elected to return to the airport for landing on Runway 22. As he flared for landing, a gust of wind lifted the right wing, and the left wing then contacted the runway surface. The airplane ground looped, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing rear spar and left elevator. Recorded winds at the airport, about the time of the accident, were from 240 degrees at 11 knots, gusting to 14 knots. Subsequent inspection revealed that two large holes in the muffler were the source of smoke. Prior to departure, the pilot reported that the engine backfired during his magneto check.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s inadequate compensation for wind conditions during landing. Contributing to the accident was the distraction of smoke in the cockpit.
Full Narrative
During initial climb at 300 feet above ground level, smoke began to enter the cockpit area, emanating from the windscreen defroster vent. The pilot elected to return to the airport for landing on runway 22. As he flared for landing, a gust of wind lifted the right wing, and the left wing then contacted the runway surface. The airplane ground looped, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing rear spar and left elevator. Recorded winds at the airport, about the time of the accident, were from 240 degrees at 11 knots, gusting to 14 knots. Subsequent inspection revealed that two large holes in the muffler were the source of smoke. Prior to departure, the pilot reported the engine backfired during his magneto check.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time17:54 EDT
Nearest AirportWilkes-Barre/ Scranton (0nm)
Runway22
Runway Length7501 ft
Runway Width150 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftPiper PA20 115
Tail NumberN7653K
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorThomas John Malinchak
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-290 · Reciprocating · 125
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 34 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind240° @ 11 kt, gusting 14 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingOvercast 9500 ft
Temperature / Dew Point57 / 18 C
Altimeter29.80 inHg
Observation Time21:54
Weather SourceWFAC