2000-04-07: Piper PA-24 — Herlong, CA

Casualties unknown • Herlong, CA, US

Probable cause

The failure of the pilot to maintain directional control of the airplane during landing in gusting crosswind conditions.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported that during the landing rollout, while at about 50 mph, a strong gust of wind hit him from the left. The airplane veered to the right off the runway, then continued through a metal fence and into a field. There was damage to the left wing, aileron, and landing gear. The pilot reported that the winds at the airport at the time of the accident were from the southwest at 25 to 35 knots, gusting to 35 knots and higher. According to the manufacturer, there is no published maximum crosswind component for the PA-24.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-04-07 Piper PA-24 accident near Herlong, CA?

The pilot reported that during the landing rollout, while at about 50 mph, a strong gust of wind hit him from the left. The airplane veered to the right off the runway, then continued through a metal fence and into a field. There was damage to the left wing, aileron, and landing gear. The pilot reported that the…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-04-07 involved a Piper PA-24, registration N180BC, at Herlong, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the pilot to maintain directional control of the airplane during landing in gusting crosswind conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20848. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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