Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate compensation for wind conditions during landing. Contributing to the accident was the distraction of smoke in the cockpit.
NTSB analysis
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.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09CA246 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 9, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Scranton, Pennsylvania
- Nearest airport
- Wilkes-Barre/ Scranton (AVP)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA20
- N-number
- N7653K
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.