Casualties unknown

2000-11-01: Piper PA-32R-301 (N8139A) — Dayton Valley, NV

Dayton Valley, NV, US

On November 1, 2000, a Piper PA-32R-301 (registration N8139A) was involved in an aviation accident near Dayton Valley, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to attain a proper glide path during the final approach resulting in an undershoot of the runway. Factors were the lack of runway lights and night lighting condition. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane collided with desert brush short of the runway after sunset, damaging the nose gear, wings, and fuselage. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies.

Circumstances

The airplane arrived at the airport after official sunset, which occurred at 1703. The airport lacks runway lights for night operations. The pilot oriented the aircraft using surrounding ground lighting and lights from the company's open hangar.

Landing Attempts

On the first final approach, the pilot initiated a go-around because he was not properly set up and was dissatisfied with the visual reference of the approach. During the second approach, he aligned with what he believed was the runway centerline. While verifying that the landing gear extended lights were illuminated, he looked down. When he redirected his gaze outside, his vision became obscured.

A second go-around was initiated, but the airplane touched down during the maneuver. The pilot heard a loud noise and subsequently observed desert brush. The pilot stated there were no mechanical anomalies with the airplane.

Outcome

The airplane collided with desert brush short of the runway, shearing off the nose landing gear, damaging both wings, and twisting the fuselage.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22203. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.