Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-24-260B near Carrollton, GA — 2010-05-08

Final reportERA10CA265
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Date
2010-05-08
Location
Carrollton, GA, USA
Airport
CTJ
Aircraft
PIPER PA-24-260B
Registration
N9231P
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Approach

Probable cause

The pilot's improper touchdown point during landing. Contributing to the accident was the certificated flight instructor's lack of remedial action.

NTSB narrative

The pilot had just purchased a share in the airplane and was receiving a checkout with a certified flight instructor for insurance purposes. While practicing a landing with a simulated engine failure, the airplane landed about 90 feet short of the runway pavement. As the airplane proceeded forward, the nosewheel struck the runway edge, collapsing the nose gear. The pilot initiated a go-around and, on the second landing attempt and with no nosewheel, the airplane skidded to a stop, substantially damaging the engine firewall. The pilot reported there were no mechanical problems with the airplane. According to the pilot the firewall damage was likely sustained as the landing gear crossed the edge of the runway pavement. The pilot also noted that the majority of his flight experience has been in high-wing aircraft, where it is easier to see the main gear and runway.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Deciding to aim for a landing point further down the runway.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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