PIPER PA-46-500TP near West Palm Beach, FL — 2013-06-03
- Date
- 2013-06-03
- Location
- West Palm Beach, FL, USA
- Airport
- FD38
- Aircraft
- PIPER PA-46-500TP
- Registration
- N21EP
- Category
- Airplane
- Highest injury
- None
- Fatalities
- 0
Probable cause
The pilot’s diversion of attention while taxiing the airplane, which resulted in his failure to maintain directional control and collision with a ditch.
NTSB narrative
The pilot stated that he was taxiing to the runway while adjusting the flight instruments for takeoff when the airplane drifted left of the taxiway centerline and struck a culvert. After performing a visual inspection of the airframe and determining that all systems functioned normally, the pilot elected to continue to the runway and complete the flight as planned. The following day, an inspection of the airplane performed by a mechanic revealed substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. He further stated that he should not have started taxiing the airplane or attempted to “multi-task” while taxiing.
NTSB coding
Evidence available
- Photos
- 5 docket documents
Docket documents5
- Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
- Memorandum of Record - Pilotother
- Memorandum of Record - Weatherother
- Photo 1: Picture of Right Wing of Accident Airplane in Hangar (Courtesy of FAA)photos
- Photo 2: Picture of Accident Airplane Left Wing and Part of Right Wing in Hangar (Courtesy of FAA)photos
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