On December 28, 1985, a Piper PA-24 (registration N7571P) was involved in an aviation accident near Ellington, CT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to conduct a low, slow approach without using the landing light, which resulted in the landing gear striking a bridge. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a short runway approach, the aircraft's landing gear struck a bridge approximately 50 feet from the runway, causing the plane to bounce before landing and skidding to a stop.
What happened
The pilot was conducting an approach for landing when the aircraft encountered a significant obstacle just prior to touchdown. Approximately 50 feet from the runway, the landing gear made contact with a bridge structure. This impact caused the aircraft to bounce back into the air. At this moment, power was applied to the engines in an attempt to regain control and continue the maneuver. The aircraft bounced again following this application of power.
Eventually, the aircraft managed to land on the runway surface. Upon touchdown, it skidded along the pavement before coming to a complete stop. Following the incident, the pilot provided an explanation for the sequence of events. She stated that she intentionally flew a low and slow approach because the runway length was short. Additionally, she reported that the aircraft's landing light was not utilized during the approach phase.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to conduct a low, slow approach without using the landing light, which resulted in the landing gear striking a bridge.
What happened in the 28 Dec 1985 Piper PA-24 accident near Ellington, CT?
During a short runway approach, the aircraft's landing gear struck a bridge approximately 50 feet from the runway, causing the plane to bounce before landing and skidding to a stop.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 28 Dec 1985 involved a Piper PA-24, registration N7571P, at Ellington, CT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to conduct a low, slow approach without using the landing light, which resulted in the landing gear striking a bridge.
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