Casualties unknown

1993-10-30: Cessna 320C (N3057T) — Chapman, E.l. — Spirit Lake, ID

Spirit Lake, ID, US

On October 30, 1993, a Cessna 320C (registration N3057T) operated by Chapman, E.l. was involved in an aviation accident near Spirit Lake, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED. THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WAS A FACTOR. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During final approach to a private airstrip, the airplane dropped suddenly during flare, resulting in a hard landing. The airplane veered left and collided with a dirt bank. No mechanical failures were reported.

Accident Details

The pilot reported that the final approach to the private airstrip was conducted under normal operating procedures. As the pilot initiated the flare, the airplane suddenly dropped and landed hard. After touchdown, the airplane traveled approximately 50 feet before veering to the left side of the airstrip and colliding with a dirt bank.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane at the time of the accident. The sequence of events indicates a sudden loss of lift or unexpected aerodynamic behavior during the flare, causing the hard landing and subsequent ground excursion.

Observations

The accident occurred on a private airstrip. The airplane's deviation to the left after the hard landing suggests that directional control was lost or insufficient to keep the airplane aligned with the runway centerline. The collision with the dirt bank halted the airplane's motion.

Conclusion

Based on the pilot's account, the accident resulted from an unexpectedly hard landing during flare, followed by a veer-off course and impact with a ground obstacle. No mechanical issues were identified as contributing factors.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13672. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.