Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-24-400 near Minden, NV — 2013-03-12

Final reportWPR13CA148
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Date
2013-03-12
Location
Minden, NV, USA
Airport
MEV
Aircraft
PIPER PA-24-400
Registration
N8533P
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's improper flare, which resulted in a bounced landing and a loss of directional control.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, during the landing, he crossed the threshold at 85 to 90 knots with 15 degrees of flaps. The pilot used the electric trim as the airplane “floated” about 3 to 4 feet above the runway. The airplane subsequently touched down hard, and it bounced three times, striking the propeller on the runway each time. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control by applying brakes and making rudder control inputs, and the airplane departed the side of the runway, collapsing the landing gear. Postaccident examinations revealed substantial damage to the airplane’s lower belly main structure from the forward bulkhead firewall to just aft of the wing. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 5 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents5

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