1996-07-24: Piper PA-31-350 — Union Flights — Kneeland, CA

Casualties unknown • Kneeland, CA, US

Probable cause

the pilot's misjudgment of distance and speed, during the landing, and his failure to execute a go-around, when a proper touchdown point was not attained.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot diverted to the planned alternate airport due to fog. The alternate airport was located on top of a ridge line about 2,700 feet higher than the planned destination airport. The runway was 2,200 feet long and had no services. According to witnesses, the pilot landed 'hot' about midfield, and the aircraft left skid marks on the runway that measured between 330 to 350 feet long. The aircraft departed the end of the runway, and went down an embankment and into trees. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-07-24 Piper PA-31-350 accident near Kneeland, CA?

The pilot diverted to the planned alternate airport due to fog. The alternate airport was located on top of a ridge line about 2,700 feet higher than the planned destination airport. The runway was 2,200 feet long and had no services. According to witnesses, the pilot landed 'hot' about midfield, and the aircraft…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-07-24 involved a Piper PA-31-350, registration N48DH, operated by Union Flights, at Kneeland, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's misjudgment of distance and speed, during the landing, and his failure to execute a go-around, when a proper touchdown point was not attained.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06300. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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