Landing Gear Collapse During Crosswind Landing

Casualties unknown • Augusta, GA, US

Aircraft experienced loss of directional control during final approach in gusty crosswinds and windshear, resulting in a hard landing and collapse of the landing gear.

What happened

The pilot was conducting an approach to land at his destination airport under known adverse weather conditions. The environment featured significant gusty crosswinds and windshear. During the final phase of the approach, air traffic control tower personnel provided updates regarding thunderstorm activity in the vicinity and reported wind conditions from 260 degrees at 56 knots.

As the aircraft descended for touchdown, the pilot initiated the flare maneuver at an altitude estimated between 10 and 15 feet above the ground. At this critical moment, the airplane encountered a strong gust of wind. This sudden aerodynamic disturbance caused the aircraft to yaw or turn sharply to the right. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control of the airplane on the runway surface.

The aircraft impacted the runway with excessive vertical speed, resulting in a hard landing. Following the impact, the airplane departed the paved surface and skidded off the runway. The forces generated during this sequence caused all three pieces of landing gear to collapse.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a landing in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a hard landing and subsequent damage to the landing gear.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-04-23 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Augusta, GA?

Aircraft experienced loss of directional control during final approach in gusty crosswinds and windshear, resulting in a hard landing and collapse of the landing gear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-04-23 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N1321H, operated by Edwin A. Deas, at Augusta, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a landing in gusty crosswind conditions, which resulted in a hard landing and subsequent damage to the landing gear.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07796. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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