On May 31, 1990, a Piper PA23-250 (registration N32AC) operated by Corporate Aircraft Leasing,inc was involved in an aviation accident near Carbondale, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INABILITY TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING THE TOUCHDOWN AND LANDING ROLL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported that during a second touch-and-go landing, the aircraft veered violently left, departed the runway, and then swerved back. Post-accident inspection found skid marks consistent with a locked left brake and a failed nose gear steering arm.
Incident Description
The pilot reported that the first touch-and-go landing was uneventful. On the second landing, when the nose gear touched down, the aircraft veered "violently" to the left. The aircraft departed the left side of the runway, then swerved "rather suddenly" back to the right and onto the runway. A pilot-rated passenger stated that the pilot applied pull right rudder and right brake, and used differential power in an attempt to regain directional control.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident investigation revealed skid marks on the runway that were consistent with a touchdown with the left brake locked. Examination also showed that the nose gear steering arm had failed in an overload failure.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 31 May 1990 Piper PA23-250 accident near Carbondale, IL?
A pilot reported that during a second touch-and-go landing, the aircraft veered violently left, departed the runway, and then swerved back. Post-accident inspection found skid marks consistent with a locked left brake and a failed nose gear steering arm.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 May 1990 involved a Piper PA23-250, registration N32AC, operated by Corporate Aircraft Leasing,inc, at Carbondale, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S INABILITY TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING THE TOUCHDOWN AND LANDING ROLL.
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