Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-22-150 near Tacoma, WA — 2009-08-21

Final reportWPR09LA408
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Date
2009-08-21
Location
Tacoma, WA, USA
Airport
TIW
Aircraft
PIPER PA-22-150
Registration
N6038D
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

The pilot's improper landing flare in crosswind conditions resulting in a gear leg collapse.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he was landing in crosswind conditions and was using a right wing low technique for the wheel landing. Shortly after touchdown he heard the right gear leg pop and the strut collapsed. The gear support structure and associated gearbox were substantially damaged. Post accident examination of the strut attachment fitting by a Safety Board metallurgist revealed that the fracture faces displayed features and deformations consistent with overstress separations. The metallurgist reported that no indications of preexisting cracking or corrosion were detected. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the airplanes flight control systems prior to the accident.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have chosen a different landing technique to mitigate crosswind effects.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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