1998-09-05: Piper PA-34-200 — St. Augustine, FL

Casualties unknown • St. Augustine, FL, US

Probable cause

The failure of the flight instructor and dual student to ensure the landing gear was extended for landing and their attempted go-around after the aircraft and propellers contacted the runway. This resulted in loss of directional control during the go-around due to propeller damage and subsequent impact with the ground.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The flight instructor stated they performed a go-around because they did not know if the landing gear was extended. The aircraft climbed initially, rolled to the left and descended, striking the ground left wing tip and nose first. Examination of the runway showed slash marks caused by the propellers of the aircraft. Examination of the aircraft showed the landing gear handle was in the up position and the left propeller was curled over about two thirds of the blade length. The right propeller was curled over about one third of the blade length.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-09-05 Piper PA-34-200 accident near St. Augustine, FL?

The flight instructor stated they performed a go-around because they did not know if the landing gear was extended. The aircraft climbed initially, rolled to the left and descended, striking the ground left wing tip and nose first. Examination of the runway showed slash marks caused by the propellers of the aircraft.…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-09-05 involved a Piper PA-34-200, registration N40805, at St. Augustine, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the flight instructor and dual student to ensure the landing gear was extended for landing and their attempted go-around after the aircraft and propellers contacted the runway. This resulted in loss of directional control during the go-around due to propeller damage and subsequent impact with the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11127. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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