Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA 32 near Cheboygan, MI — 2017-12-05

Final reportGAA18CA081
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Date
2017-12-05
Location
Cheboygan, MI, USA
Airport
SLH
Aircraft
PIPER PA 32
Registration
N4887S
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain the airplane’s rate of descent in gusting wind conditions resulting in a hard landing and runway excursion.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, during approach to runway 28, he noticed that the vertical speed indicator showed an increase in the decent rate so he applied full power. He reported that the airplane landed hard, and he heard a "pop" and believed that the main landing gear tires had failed. The airplane exited the right side of the runway and struck a runway light. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the aft bulkhead, stringer, and skin. According to the METAR at the accident airport, about the time of the accident the wind was from 230° at 28 kts gusting to 42 kts. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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