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October 23, 2016 · Yakovlev YAK 55M · N38YK

Tracy, CA

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
October 23, 2016
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Tracy, CA
Aircraft
Yakovlev YAK 55M (1987)
Tail Number
N38YK
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
GAA17CA034

The pilot of the high-performance airplane reported that, on his third simulated forced landing, while turning left base to final in a slip, he realized that the airplane was too low and not aligned with the runway. He applied full throttle to go around. The airplane responded suddenly by changing attitude but continued to descend and impacted terrain and the airport perimeter fence. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot further reported that the slow airspeed coupled with the unexpected high torque from advancing the throttle during an uncoordinated left turn were factors in the accident. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s unstabilized approach and delayed application of full throttle for a go-around, which resulted in an uncontrolled descent.

Full Narrative

The pilot of the high performance airplane reported that on his third simulated forced landing, while turning left base to final in a slip, he realized that the airplane was too low, and not aligned with the runway. He applied full throttle to go-around. The airplane responded suddenly by changing attitude, but continued to descend and impacted terrain and the airport perimeter fence. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot further reported that the slow airspeed coupled with the unexpected high torque from advancing the throttle during an uncoordinated left turn were factors in the accident. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time14:30 PDT
Nearest AirportNew Jerusalem (0nm SE)
Runway30
Runway Length3530 ft
Runway Width60 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftYakovlev YAK 55M
Tail NumberN38YK
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsVedeneyev · M14PF · Reciprocating · 400
Seats1

People & Injuries

Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 61 · Third Class · None

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind280° @ 4 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point46
Altimeter29.87 inHg
Observation Time20:55
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data