Wells BABY LAKES accident near Monroe, WA

On April 22, 1999, a Wells BABY LAKES (airplane) was involved in an accident near Monroe, WA. 1 person died. Damage to the aircraft: destroyed.

Date

April 22, 1999

Place

Monroe, WA

Aircraft

Wells BABY LAKES · Airplane

Injuries

1 fatal, 0 serious, 0 minor

Damage

Destroyed

Position

47.871°N, 121.881°W

NTSB ID

20001205X00567

NTSB summary

On April 22, 1999, approximately 1208 Pacific daylight time, a Wells Baby Lakes, N92JW, registered to and operated by the pilot, was substantially damaged after it collided with the ground near a private airstrip in Monroe, Washington. The aircraft was being operated as a 14 CFR 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the local flight. The private pilot, the sole occupant, was fatally injured. There was no fire and no report of an ELT actuating. The flight originated from the Firstair Airfield, Monroe, Washington, approximately 45 minutes prior to the accident. A witness, located approximately one mile east of the accident site, reported seeing a red biplane flying "quite low over our farm." The witness stated it appeared the aircraft was practicing touch and go landings, "but never quite touching the ground." The aircraft continued to maneuver in the area for approximately 20 minutes. The witness reported that the aircraft was maneuvering approximately 40 feet above the ground when it abruptly nosed over and spiraled into the ground. The most current weight and balance data for the aircraft, dated May 02, 1992, showed a basic empty weight of 579.5 pounds. According to the aircraft's logbooks the recommended center of gravity is 14 inches aft of datum, plus or minus 1.5 inches, making the total range 12.5 inches to 15.5 inches aft of datum. The weight and balance data for the aircraft was computed with the aircraft having an electric starter, battery and a wooden propeller. Examination of the aircraft wreckage revealed

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control. A factor was attempting to fly the airplane outside of its weight and balance limits.

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Source: NTSB aviation accident database (US government, public domain). Findings may be preliminary or later revised by the NTSB. Not a complete global record.