the pilot's inadequate compensation for the downdraft condition and subsequent failure to maintain a proper rate of descent.
— NTSB Determination
According to the pilot, his initial approach to runway 17 appeared normal. However, a downdraft was encountered as he crossed over the runway numbers, and the airplane made a hard touchdown. The landing gear collapsed, and the airplane slid off the runway and down an embankment. The pilot reported that the local wind was from the south-southwest at 15 to 20 knots.
According to the pilot, his initial approach to runway 17 appeared normal. However, a downdraft was encountered as he crossed over the runway numbers, and the airplane made a hard touchdown. The landing gear collapsed, and the airplane slid off the runway and down an embankment. The pilot reported that the local wind…
The accident on 1996-05-17 involved a Piper PA-32RT-300T, registration N21312, at Kernville, CA.
the pilot's inadequate compensation for the downdraft condition and subsequent failure to maintain a proper rate of descent.
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