On March 29, 1997, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N194BA) was involved in an aviation accident near Stillwater, OK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions, and his failure to maintain directional control, which resulted in a ground swerve and collapse of the nose gear. The crosswind was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During the landing roll on runway 17 in a left crosswind, the airplane veered left and entered a skid. The nose landing gear separated and the airplane came to rest on grass after exiting the runway.
Event Description
During the landing roll on runway 17, the airplane traveled approximately 500 feet before veering to the left. The student pilot reported applying right rudder input, but the airplane continued to veer left and entered a skid. The nose landing gear then separated from the airplane. The airplane subsequently departed the left side of the runway and skidded approximately 30 feet on grass before coming to a complete stop.
Crosswind Conditions
The left crosswind component at the time of the landing was calculated to be between 9 and 10 knots. According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook, the airplane's maximum demonstrated crosswind component is 15 knots.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 29 Mar 1997 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Stillwater, OK?
During the landing roll on runway 17 in a left crosswind, the airplane veered left and entered a skid. The nose landing gear separated and the airplane came to rest on grass after exiting the runway.
Were there any fatalities in the 29 Mar 1997 Piper PA-38-112 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Mar 1997 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N194BA, at Stillwater, OK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions, and his failure to maintain directional control, which resulted in a ground swerve and collapse of the nose gear. The crosswind was a related factor.
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