Aircraft veered off runway during landing rollout

Casualties unknown • Fullerton, CA, US

An aircraft veered toward the left edge of the runway during the landing rollout, resulting in tire skid marks across the pavement.

What happened

The pilot reported that the initial phase of the landing was routine through the moment of touchdown. At the time of the event, there was a quartering left crosswind of 12 knots.

During the rollout phase, the aircraft began to veer toward the left. Despite the pilot applying right rudder and utilizing brake control, the aircraft could not be maintained on the runway centerline.

Evidence from the scene showed tire skid marks produced by the nose wheel and the right main tire beginning approximately 1,000 feet from the landing threshold. As the aircraft continued down the runway, an additional mark from the left main tire became visible about 500 feet further along the path. These marks angled toward the left side of the runway, with the tracks from both the left and right main gear converging at the left edge of the runway approximately 200 feet later.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-10-23 Piper PA-24-250 accident near Fullerton, CA?

An aircraft veered toward the left edge of the runway during the landing rollout, resulting in tire skid marks across the pavement.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-10-23 involved a Piper PA-24-250, registration N8203P, at Fullerton, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during landing roll, which resulted in an inadvertent ground swerve and subsequent damage to the airplane.

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