On February 2, 2001, a Piper PA-34-220T (registration N4123K) was involved in an aviation accident near Charlevoix, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to maintain directional control of the airplane due to inadequate compensation for the wind conditions. Factors associated with the accident were the gusty crosswind, the icy runway, and the snow bank. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing roll on runway 27, the airplane veered right due to excessive right aileron input, then veered left after a gust lifted the right wing, contacted ice, and slid into a snow bank.
Accident Narrative
The airplane was making a landing on runway 27. During the landing roll, the airplane veered to the right of the runway. The pilot reported that this veer was caused by too much right aileron input. The pilot neutralized the aileron and began steering with the rudder. Subsequently, a gust of wind combined with the crosswind lifted the right wing, causing the airplane to veer to the left. The airplane then contacted ice on the runway and slid into a snow bank.
Runway Conditions
An inspection of the runway revealed that the center of the runway was clear. However, patches of ice were present along the left side of the runway. The snow along the sides of the runway was high enough that only the tops of the runway lights were visible.
Weather Information
The pilot reported wind from 330 degrees at 12 knots, gusting to 17 knots. A weather observation taken at the airport six minutes after the accident recorded wind from 320 degrees at 9 knots.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 Feb 2001 Piper PA-34-220T accident near Charlevoix, MI?
During landing roll on runway 27, the airplane veered right due to excessive right aileron input, then veered left after a gust lifted the right wing, contacted ice, and slid into a snow bank.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Feb 2001 involved a Piper PA-34-220T, registration N4123K, at Charlevoix, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot failed to maintain directional control of the airplane due to inadequate compensation for the wind conditions. Factors associated with the accident were the gusty crosswind, the icy runway, and the snow bank.
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