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NTSB Report
August 16, 2009 · Morse Frank L Kitfox · N39FM
Crawford, CO
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
August 16, 2009
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Crawford, CO
Aircraft
Morse Frank L Kitfox
Tail Number
N39FM
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN09CA528
The pilot was conducting aerial observation of his pipeline head gate to check for debris. He overflew the area at 150 feet above ground level (agl) and "observed a light tailwind and no downdraft." He performed a left 360 degree turn and flew over the area a second time between 50 and 60 feet agl. The airplane encountered a "severe downdraft" and settled into terrain. The right wing spar was broken in the impact, as was the right main landing gear and nosewheel. The propeller was destroyed. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the airplane.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's continued flight into a severe downdraft at low altitude after encountering tailwind over the area.
Full Narrative
The pilot was conducting aerial observation of his pipeline head gate to check for debris. The pilot overflew the area at 150 feet above ground level (agl) and "observed a light tailwind and no downdraft." The pilot performed a left 360 degree turn and flew over the area a second time between 50 and 60 feet agl. The airplane encountered a "severe downdraft" and settled into terrain. The right wing spar was broken in the impact, as was the right main landing gear and nosewheel. The propeller was destroyed. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the airplane.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time16:15 MDT
Nearest AirportCRAWFORD (0nm)
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftMorse Frank L Kitfox
Tail NumberN39FM
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsRotax · 582 · Reciprocating · 65
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 63 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind250° @ 16 kt, gusting 22 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point25 C
Altimeter30.05 inHg
Observation Time21:53
Weather SourceWFAC