On June 18, 1997, a Piper PA-32-300T (registration N8056Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Del Norte, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to attain proper runway alignment. Factors were his attention being diverted by a rough running engine because the fuel injectors were partially blocked. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During descent into Del Norte, Colorado, an engine began running rough with almost total power loss. The pilot's attention was diverted, leading to a touchdown with the left main gear on the runway shoulder, which later collapsed when striking a taxiway lip.
Event Summary
A pilot reported that during the descent into Del Norte, Colorado, the aircraft's engine began running rough, accompanied by an almost total loss of power. Although the engine continued to operate, attempts to restore full power were unsuccessful. The pilot stated that his attention was diverted by the rough running engine, and he inadvertently allowed the aircraft to touch down with the nose and right main landing gear on the runway while the left main landing gear was positioned on the runway shoulder. As he attempted to return the aircraft to the runway, the left main landing gear struck the lip of a taxiway and subsequently collapsed.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination of the engine revealed that the fuel injector nozzles were partially blocked by a gummy residue. This blockage likely contributed to the rough engine operation and loss of power experienced by the pilot.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 18 Jun 1997 Piper PA-32-300T accident near Del Norte, CO?
During descent into Del Norte, Colorado, an engine began running rough with almost total power loss. The pilot's attention was diverted, leading to a touchdown with the left main gear on the runway shoulder, which later collapsed when striking a taxiway lip.
Were there any fatalities in the 18 Jun 1997 Piper PA-32-300T accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Jun 1997 involved a Piper PA-32-300T, registration N8056Y, at Del Norte, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to attain proper runway alignment. Factors were his attention being diverted by a rough running engine because the fuel injectors were partially blocked.
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