On June 26, 1999, a Piper PA-22-108 (registration N5059Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Winthrop, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot/passenger's failure to maintain directional control. A contributing factor was the fence. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a test flight of a tailwheel-equipped Piper PA-22-108, the prospective buyer's first landing resulted in a veer to the right, departure from Runway 31, and impact with a barbed wire fence. No mechanical issues were reported.
Incident Overview
A Piper PA-22-108, equipped with a tailwheel configuration, was involved in a runway excursion during a test flight. The aircraft was being flown by a pilot-in-command accompanied by a pilot/passenger, who was a prospective buyer of the airplane. The flight was intended as a test flight for the potential purchaser.
Landing and Runway Excursion
During the pilot/passenger's first landing on Runway 31, approximately 75 to 100 feet into the landing roll, the aircraft began to veer to the right. It subsequently departed the right side of the runway and eventually impacted a barbed wire fence.
Pilot Report and Conditions
The pilot-in-command reported no mechanical difficulties with the aircraft during the flight or landing. Weather conditions at the time were described as light and variable winds. No further details about the extent of damage or injuries were provided in the source.