Aircraft Exits Runway After Landing Roll-out

Casualties unknown • Fitchburg, MA, US

An aircraft exited a runway onto the grass during the landing roll-out, resulting in nose gear failure and structural damage.

What happened

Prior to entering the airport traffic pattern, the pilot checked the Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS), which indicated that winds were favoring Runway 02. However, after observing other aircraft utilizing Runway 32, the pilot opted to enter the pattern with a 45-degree entry to the downwind for Runway 32.

The pilot executed a standard traffic pattern and prepared for a crosswind landing. During the landing roll-out, the airplane drifted left of the runway centerline before veering to the right. This movement caused the aircraft to exit the runway and travel onto the grass. The impact resulted in the nose gear shearing off the airplane, which subsequently caused damage to the propeller and the firewall.

There were no injuries reported following the incident.

The investigation

A mechanical examination of the aircraft was conducted, which revealed that there were no mechanical malfunctions present. At the time of the event, the airport's reported winds were from 020 degrees at 12 knots.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-07-08 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Fitchburg, MA?

An aircraft exited a runway onto the grass during the landing roll-out, resulting in nose gear failure and structural damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-07-08 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N21072, at Fitchburg, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind. A factor was the crosswind.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21485. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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