Casualties unknown

1998-05-08: Piper PA-30 (N7312Y) — Hendersonville, NC

Hendersonville, NC, US

On May 8, 1998, a Piper PA-30 (registration N7312Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Hendersonville, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to attain the proper touchdown point and improper go-around procedures resulting in collision with wires, trees, and the ground. Factors were the pilot's lack of familiarity with the airplane and the short runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

Pilot landed beyond first third of 3,075-ft runway, initiated go-around after ineffective brakes, but struck power line and trees during left bank to avoid trees. Landing gear remained extended.

Accident Overview

A pilot reported landing beyond the first third of a 3,075-foot runway that had a NOTAM. The pilot stated the brakes seemed ineffective, prompting a go-around. The pilot applied full power, raised the flaps, and lifted off just before the end of the runway.

Pilot's Account

After lifting off, the pilot made a left bank to avoid trees ahead. During the left bank, the left wing struck a power line, trees, and the ground. The pilot had 24 hours of flight time in this airplane.

Witness Account

A witness reported hearing tires skidding several times. The witness observed an airplane near the end of the runway and heard the engine power increase with approximately 500-600 feet of runway remaining. The airplane rotated with about 75 feet remaining. As trees beyond the runway were approached, the pilot turned left, clipped a wire with the left wing, then collided with the ground. The witness stated the landing gear remained down.

Investigation Findings

The investigation revealed the airplane's landing gear was extended. In this airplane, a normal go-around is accomplished by adding full power, raising the flaps, and raising the landing gear. The right brake was impact damaged, and the left brake was intact and showed ample pad available. When the cockpit brake pedal was pushed, the pad operated at the left wheel. The landing distance over a 50-foot obstacle with the accident conditions is 2,040 feet. Without an obstacle, the airplane can land in 690 feet.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X09990. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.