Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Collides with Fence During Private Pilot Checkride (N5230W)

Alvaredo, TX, US

On July 21, 1999, a Piper PA-28-160 (registration N5230W) was involved in an aviation accident near Alvaredo, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's failure to maintain a proper glidepath during his short-field approach. 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

During a private pilot certificate evaluation, a student pilot attempted a short-field landing, lost control, and struck a fence after landing.

Incident Overview

A student pilot undergoing an evaluation for a private pilot certificate was involved in an accident during a short-field landing demonstration. The evaluation was conducted by an FAA designated examiner.

Sequence of Events

The student pilot reported that while demonstrating a short-field landing, he allowed the aircraft to become "too shallow." In response, he applied power to correct the altitude and believed he had the situation under control. However, after removing the power, the aircraft "fell short" and subsequently collided with a fence after landing.

Conclusion

The accident occurred during a routine checkride for the private pilot certificate. The student's description of the event indicates a misjudgment during the approach and landing phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Jul 1999 Piper PA-28-160 accident near Alvaredo, TX?

During a private pilot certificate evaluation, a student pilot attempted a short-field landing, lost control, and struck a fence after landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Jul 1999 involved a Piper PA-28-160, registration N5230W, at Alvaredo, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's failure to maintain a proper glidepath during his short-field approach.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19277. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.