On June 13, 1998, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N55369) was involved in an aviation accident near Destin, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and her failure to maintain adequate obstacle clearance during an attempted go-around. A factor was the pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a go-around after being distracted by an accident aircraft on the runway, the pilot's airplane drifted left and collided with trees near the runway.
Incident Details
The pilot of an airplane reported that during an approach to Destin for a full-stop landing, she became aware of another aircraft that was involved in an earlier accident on runway 32. That airplane was still on a portion of the runway. The pilot continued the approach to runway 14 and upon seeing the accident aircraft, she became distracted. About 20 feet above the ground, she encountered a wind gust and decided to go around. She applied full power and attempted the go-around. As the airplane started to climb, it drifted left of the runway centerline. The drift continued until the airplane collided with trees near the runway.
Pilot Statement
The pilot did not report any mechanical problem with the airplane. The prevailing winds were reported as 240 degrees at 13 knots, with gusts to 23 knots.
What happened in the 13 Jun 1998 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Destin, FL?
During a go-around after being distracted by an accident aircraft on the runway, the pilot's airplane drifted left and collided with trees near the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Jun 1998 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N55369, at Destin, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and her failure to maintain adequate obstacle clearance during an attempted go-around. A factor was the pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions.
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