On February 12, 1989, a Piper PA-28R-201 (registration N16TP) operated by Plodzien, Thomas J. was involved in an aviation accident near Stevens Point, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WHICH RESULTED IN AN INADVERTENT GROUND SWERVE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing, the aircraft turned left upon touchdown, leading to collapse of the right main landing gear and nose gear. Post-accident inspection found no pre-accident brake malfunction but overload failure of the right main gear truss.
Event Description
The pilot reported that just as the main gear touched the runway, the aircraft turned to the left, as if the left brake had locked or the aircraft had been pushed by a strong left crosswind. Subsequently, the aircraft's right main landing gear collapsed, followed by the nose gear. The aircraft then skidded to a stop on the runway.
Wind Conditions
Winds at the uncontrolled airport were reported to be aligned with the runway at about 8 knots.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the left wheel and brake assembly revealed no indication of a pre-accident malfunction. An inspection of the right main landing gear truss assembly indicated it had failed in overload. No progressive failure was evident.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 12 Feb 1989 Piper PA-28R-201 accident near Stevens Point, WI?
During landing, the aircraft turned left upon touchdown, leading to collapse of the right main landing gear and nose gear. Post-accident inspection found no pre-accident brake malfunction but overload failure of the right main gear truss.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Feb 1989 involved a Piper PA-28R-201, registration N16TP, operated by Plodzien, Thomas J., at Stevens Point, WI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WHICH RESULTED IN AN INADVERTENT GROUND SWERVE.
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