On October 27, 1991, a Piper PA28-140 (registration N3771K) operated by Bonak, Steven P was involved in an aviation accident near Chiriaco Summit, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE DELAYED ACTIONS OF THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND IN SELECTING A GO-AROUND ND SUBSEQUENT LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WHICH RESULTED IN THE AIRPLANE DRIFTING OFF THE RUNWAY CENTERLINE AND COLLIDING WITH TERRAIN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Piper PA-28-140 lost directional control after a go-around during a crosswind landing, veered off runway, collapsed nose gear, and sustained wing damage on sandy terrain.
Accident Overview
A Piper PA-28-140 collided with terrain after a loss of control while attempting to land on Runway 24. The pilot reported a slight crosswind during the landing attempt, estimating wind conditions from 300 degrees at 10 knots. During the final approach and landing flare, the airplane's nose weathervaned into the wind.
Sequence of Events
The pilot elected to perform a go-around but subsequently lost directional control. The airplane touched down on the left shoulder of the runway and bounced. The rollout continued onto sandy terrain, where the nose gear collapsed and the wings sustained damage.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The pilot stated that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane before the accident. The aircraft involved was a Piper PA-28-140. No further details about the pilot or flight were provided in the source.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 27 Oct 1991 Piper PA28-140 accident near Chiriaco Summit, CA?
A Piper PA-28-140 lost directional control after a go-around during a crosswind landing, veered off runway, collapsed nose gear, and sustained wing damage on sandy terrain.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Oct 1991 involved a Piper PA28-140, registration N3771K, operated by Bonak, Steven P, at Chiriaco Summit, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE DELAYED ACTIONS OF THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND IN SELECTING A GO-AROUND ND SUBSEQUENT LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WHICH RESULTED IN THE AIRPLANE DRIFTING OFF THE RUNWAY CENTERLINE AND COLLIDING WITH TERRAIN. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO COMPENSATE FOR WIND CONDITIONS.
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