On October 4, 1997, an American 8KCAB (registration N69BP) operated by Roger Parks was involved in an aviation accident near Payson, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Directional control of the aircraft not maintained through the improper use of landing procedures/techniques. A factor in this accident was the pilot's training regarding the proper techniques to be used during landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost control of an aircraft during landing, failing to apply brakes as it veered off the runway toward trees. The pilot added power and left rudder to straighten out but decreased power as the aircraft exited the runway.
Incident Overview
During a landing attempt, the pilot of an aircraft lost control after touchdown. According to the pilot, the aircraft began to veer as it touched down on the runway. In an effort to correct the trajectory, the pilot added power and applied left rudder. Despite these inputs, the aircraft started to pull to the right. The pilot then reduced power upon realizing the aircraft was departing the runway and heading toward a group of small trees.
Pilot Statements
The pilot reported that he did not apply the brakes at any point during the landing attempt. He explained that he had been taught to never use brakes during landing. The pilot was uncertain about the amount of power he had added while attempting to straighten the aircraft before it left the runway. He also noted that he had experienced difficulties with other landings in the same aircraft.
Witness Observations
A witness at the scene reported that the weather was clear and the winds were calm at the time of the accident. No further details about the aircraft's condition or the outcome of the event were provided.