On August 31, 1989, a Piper PA-32RT-300T (registration N21353) operated by Christian Chandler was involved in an aviation accident near Wolfeboro, NH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS BY THE OWNER/PILOT-IN-COMMAND (PIC), HIS FAILUE TO MAINTAIN PROPER ALTITUDE ON THE APPROACH, AND FAILURE OF THE OTHER PILOT (OWNER'S INSTRUCTOR PILOT) TO TAKE REMEDIAL ACTION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a landing approach, an aircraft encountered wind shear, settled, and rolled left after the left wing struck tree tops, resulting in a nosed-over ground impact.
Approach and Encounter
During an approach to land on Runway 30, the owner/pilot-in-command (PIC) initiated a short field landing. The wind was reported from 300 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots. According to the owner, the aircraft encountered wind shear on final approach and began to settle.
Response and Descent
Power was added, but the aircraft continued to descend. Subsequently, it rolled to the left as the left wing hit tree tops. The aircraft then nosed over and impacted the ground.
Occupants
The owner's instructor pilot (CFI) was aboard, but the owner was considered the PIC for this flight.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 31 Aug 1989 Piper PA-32RT-300T accident near Wolfeboro, NH?
During a landing approach, an aircraft encountered wind shear, settled, and rolled left after the left wing struck tree tops, resulting in a nosed-over ground impact.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Aug 1989 involved a Piper PA-32RT-300T, registration N21353, operated by Christian Chandler, at Wolfeboro, NH.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS BY THE OWNER/PILOT-IN-COMMAND (PIC), HIS FAILUE TO MAINTAIN PROPER ALTITUDE ON THE APPROACH, AND FAILURE OF THE OTHER PILOT (OWNER'S INSTRUCTOR PILOT) TO TAKE REMEDIAL ACTION. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE ADVERSE WIND CONDITIONS AND TREES NEAR THE APPROACH END…
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