Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28-161 near Marlboro, MA — 2010-09-22

Final reportERA10CA496
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Date
2010-09-22
Location
Marlboro, MA, USA
Airport
9B1
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28-161
Registration
N260ND
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper touchdown point and failure to perform a go-around in a timely manner, which resulted in a runway excursion.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, he verified the wind direction and speed by observing the windsock before attempting to land. During the first attempt, he executed a go-around due to excessive altitude. During a second attempt, the pilot initiated a forward slip and landed the airplane two-thirds down the runway. After touchdown, he applied brake pressure, but the airplane continued off the end of the runway and impacted a fence, substantially damaging the fuselage and wings. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that it was the first time he had landed at the airport and that it was the shortest runway he had ever attempted to land on. The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if he had performed a go-around.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot should have performed a go-around if unsure about landing safely.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 6 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents6

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