On March 9, 1985, a Piper PA-44-180T (registration N8278Y) was involved in an aviation accident near S Lake Tahoe, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing due to skidding on a contaminated runway surface. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft veered off the runway and struck a snow bank after braking upon touchdown in foggy conditions, with no mechanical issues found.
What happened
The aircraft collided with a snow bank while attempting to land. The pilot reported observing fog moving into the area just as the aircraft touched down. Upon initial contact with the runway surface, the pilot applied the brakes immediately. This action resulted in a skidding motion, causing the aircraft to veer to the left and ultimately impact a snow bank adjacent to the runway.
The investigation
A thorough examination of the aircraft was conducted following the incident. Investigators looked for any mechanical failures or physical defects that might have contributed to the loss of control. The inspection revealed no mechanical or physical discrepancies of a causal nature. The landing gear and braking systems appeared functional, indicating that the excursion was not caused by equipment failure.
Findings
The primary factor in this incident was the skidding action that occurred after touchdown. The combination of wet or icy runway conditions, implied by the presence of snow banks and fog, likely reduced tire traction. The immediate application of brakes upon touchdown may have exceeded the available friction coefficient, leading to the loss of directional control. No other contributing factors were identified.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing due to skidding on a contaminated runway surface.