Pilot Debrief

NORTH AMERICAN P51D near Chandler, AZ — 2010-03-11

Final reportWPR10LA156
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Date
2010-03-11
Location
Chandler, AZ, USA
Airport
P19
Aircraft
NORTH AMERICAN P51D
Registration
N514NH
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper flare, resulting in a bounced landing, stall, and loss of directional control.

NTSB narrative

The airplane bounced several times after touchdown followed by the nose pitching up 20-25 degrees. The airplane became airborne about 20 feet above the runway surface and stalled. The left wing dropped down about 20 degrees and the nose yawed about 30 degrees to the left of the runway heading. The pilot appeared to have taken the proper steps to regain control of the airplane, as the nose was lowered to about a level flight attitude, the wings leveled, and the application of power was heard. Despite his apparent efforts, these inputs were not sufficient to maintain directional control or alignment with the runway. The airplane departed the east edge of the runway before crossing the grass infield and the perpendicular taxiway. Witnesses reported that even after veering of the runway the airplane continued to accelerate, giving the appearance that the pilot was attempting to attain flying speed and depart. The airplane briefly became airborne before colliding with a large rock and fence post. It continued across the parking ramp and collided with a hangar, at which point it was consumed by fire.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have maintained power during landing to avoid stall.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 4 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents4

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