Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA32RT near Melfa, VA — 2016-01-19

Final reportGAA16CA110
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Date
2016-01-19
Location
Melfa, VA, USA
Airport
MFV
Aircraft
PIPER PA32RT
Registration
N3046H
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for a gusting crosswind during landing, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall, impact with a structure, and subsequent postimpact fire.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that while landing in crosswind conditions, a wind gust "forced" the airplane to drift to the right of the runway. The pilot initiated a go-around, but further reported that a "sudden drop" in the wind led to an aerodynamic stall. After the airplane stalled, it impacted a structure adjacent to the runway. A postimpact fire ensued and the airplane was destroyed. The pilot reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine 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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