Runway Excursion and Gear Collapse Following High Approach

Casualties unknown • Harbor Springs, MI, US

A pilot experienced a runway excursion on a wet runway after an unstable approach, resulting in a collapsed right main gear when attempting to avoid an obstacle.

What happened

Prior to landing, the pilot contacted UNICOM to request wind information and was advised that conditions were calm. Based on this report, the pilot elected to land on runway 28. The approach was reported as high, and the aircraft touched down approximately one-third to one-half of the way down the 4,157-foot long, wet runway.

Upon touchdown, the pilot applied full braking, but the airplane failed to decelerate sufficiently. Determining that a go-around was no longer possible, the pilot elected to remain on the ground. To avoid a fence located at the end of the runway, the pilot executed an intentional sharp left turn. During this maneuver, the right main gear contacted the grass off the side of the runway, causing the gear to collapse. The aircraft eventually came to rest nearly 180 degrees from its original landing direction.

While UNICOM had reported calm winds, the pilot noted that local winds were actually from 080 degrees at 7 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-07-28 Piper PA-34-200T accident near Harbor Springs, MI?

A pilot experienced a runway excursion on a wet runway after an unstable approach, resulting in a collapsed right main gear when attempting to avoid an obstacle.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-07-28 involved a Piper PA-34-200T, registration N345CD, operated by Bear River Aviation, at Harbor Springs, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot selected the wrong runway direction in which to land and he did not perform a go-around when he realized the landing approach was too high. Factors associated with the accident were the tailwind condition, the improper glidepath, and the intentional ground loop/swerve, and the fence at the end of the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21415. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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