On January 24, 1984, a Piper PA-28 (registration N157DB) was involved in an aviation accident near Plymouth, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed and descent profile during the final approach, resulting in a hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft sustained nose gear damage following a hard landing at excessive speed. The pilot, who lacked valid medical certification, admitted to arriving too high and fast.
What happened
The aircraft was landed with significant force at an airspeed exceeding normal operational parameters. Upon impact, the nose landing gear failed. The pilot later explained that he approached the airport higher than intended and at excessive speed, which directly resulted in the structural failure of the nose wheel during touchdown.
The investigation
A review of the pilot's credentials revealed a critical lack of authorization to fly. The individual did not hold any valid aeronautical certificates or ratings at the time of the incident. Although he had previously applied for a pilot license, his application was rejected due to a cardiovascular condition and the use of medications that disqualified him from holding medical certification.
Findings
The accident involved no injuries to the occupants. The primary contributing factors were the hard landing caused by improper approach control and the operation of an aircraft by an individual who was medically disqualified and uncertified.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed and descent profile during the final approach, resulting in a hard landing. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's lack of appropriate medical certification and aeronautical ratings due to a cardiovascular condition.
What happened in the 24 Jan 1984 Piper PA-28 accident near Plymouth, FL?
An aircraft sustained nose gear damage following a hard landing at excessive speed. The pilot, who lacked valid medical certification, admitted to arriving too high and fast.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Jan 1984 involved a Piper PA-28, registration N157DB, at Plymouth, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed and descent profile during the final approach, resulting in a hard landing. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's lack of appropriate medical certification and aeronautical ratings due to a cardiovascular condition.
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