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Check Ride Ends with Nosewheel Breakage and Runway Excursion During Icing Encounter (N1294T)

Jenison, MI, US

On December 29, 1989, a Piper PA-34-200 (registration N1294T) was involved in an aviation accident near Jenison, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED DURING THE APPROACH. A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR WAS THE ICING CONDITION THAT EXISTED AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a multi-engine check ride, the aircraft experienced abrupt oscillations and pitch changes on short final, causing the nosewheel to break off and the aircraft to skid off the runway. Pilots reported ice accumulation during descent.

Incident Overview

During a multi-engine check ride, the pilot/applicant and another pilot reported that while on short final approach, the aircraft suddenly experienced an abrupt oscillation, described as a buffet, followed by a nose-up pitch and then a nose-down pitch. The nosewheel impacted the runway and broke off, causing the aircraft to skid off the left side of the runway.

Ice Accumulation

Both pilots stated that the aircraft had accumulated approximately half an inch of mixed ice during their descent through clouds. The aircraft was not certified or equipped for flight in icing conditions.

Aircraft Modification

The aircraft had been modified with a Robertson STOL kit in July 1976.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Dec 1989 Piper PA-34-200 accident near Jenison, MI?

During a multi-engine check ride, the aircraft experienced abrupt oscillations and pitch changes on short final, causing the nosewheel to break off and the aircraft to skid off the runway. Pilots reported ice accumulation during descent.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Dec 1989 involved a Piper PA-34-200, registration N1294T, at Jenison, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED DURING THE APPROACH. A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR WAS THE ICING CONDITION THAT EXISTED AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29939. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.