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Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Hard Landing Following Control Loss on Approach (N235TL)

Zanesville, OH, US

On July 18, 1999, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N235TL) was involved in an aviation accident near Zanesville, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot reported the accident was caused by approaching the runway too slowly, combined with a high density altitude resulting from extremely high temperatures. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that after adding power to clear trees, reducing power and flaring, the airplane's control surfaces became ineffective, causing a hard landing. The pilot attributed the accident to a slow approach and high density altitude.

Incident Overview

During approach, the pilot added power to clear trees at the runway's approach end. Once past the trees, the pilot reduced power and attempted a landing flare. The pilot reported that the control surfaces were ineffective, causing the airplane to fall straight down and strike the runway "extremely hard."

Pilot Statement

According to the pilot, "The accident was caused by approaching the runway too slowly, combined with a high density altitude resulting from extremely high temperatures."

Investigation Status

The investigation is based solely on the pilot's report. No further details about the aircraft, location, or injuries have been released.

Probable cause

The pilot reported the accident was caused by approaching the runway too slowly, combined with a high density altitude resulting from extremely high temperatures.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Jul 1999 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Zanesville, OH?

A pilot reported that after adding power to clear trees, reducing power and flaring, the airplane's control surfaces became ineffective, causing a hard landing. The pilot attributed the accident to a slow approach and high density altitude.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Jul 1999 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N235TL, at Zanesville, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot reported the accident was caused by approaching the runway too slowly, combined with a high density altitude resulting from extremely high temperatures.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19287. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.