Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-31-350 near Fresno, CA — 2008-09-29

Final reportWPR09LA014
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Date
2008-09-29
Location
Fresno, CA, USA
Airport
FAT
Aircraft
PIPER PA-31-350
Registration
N27996
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot misjudged the flare resulting in a hard landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he made a firm landing and had a blown right main tire, but indicated no other problems. After replacement of both tires, the airplane continued in service for two flight sequences, flown by other pilots. Inspection by maintenance personnel revealed a line of popped rivet heads on the upper surface of the left wing above the rear spar between the nacelle and the wing fillet fairing. A close inspection discovered popped rivet heads on the left side of the fuselage below the cabin window with a gap visible in the skin lap. Inspection of both main gear wheels and tires revealed cuts and impressions in the tire sidewalls indicative of a very hard landing. Further inspection discovered buckling of both main spar webs between the fuselage and nacelles.

NTSB coding

View NTSB final report

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