On February 24, 1997, a Piper PA-28-236 (registration N4341M) operated by Roger C. Hayward was involved in an aviation accident near Palo Alto, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper landing technique resulting in a bounced landing and subsequent nose gear collapse. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced severe porpoising after touchdown due to a bounced landing, leading to nose gear collapse and runway excursion in windy conditions.
What happened
The incident occurred during the landing phase of flight. An air traffic controller observed the aircraft bounce immediately upon touchdown. Following this initial impact, the aircraft began to porpoise down the runway three times. Each successive bounce exhibited a significantly larger amplitude than the previous one.
After the third and final bounce, the nose gear collapsed under the stress. The aircraft subsequently slid off the left side of the runway. At the time of the event, the wind was blowing from 010 degrees at a speed of 15 knots.
The investigation
A mechanical examination of the aircraft was conducted to determine if equipment failure contributed to the accident. Investigators found no evidence of brake failure or any other mechanical malfunction that could have caused the porpoising or gear collapse.
Probable cause
The pilot's improper landing technique resulting in a bounced landing and subsequent nose gear collapse.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Feb 1997 Piper PA-28-236 accident near Palo Alto, CA?
An aircraft experienced severe porpoising after touchdown due to a bounced landing, leading to nose gear collapse and runway excursion in windy conditions.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Feb 1997 involved a Piper PA-28-236, registration N4341M, operated by Roger C. Hayward, at Palo Alto, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's improper landing technique resulting in a bounced landing and subsequent nose gear collapse.
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