On April 19, 2003, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N6268W) was involved in an aviation accident near Orofino, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudgment of speed and distance resulting in a loss of airspeed, stall and undershoot of runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot on final approach to runway 27 realized low and slow, added power, but the aircraft lost lift and impacted terrain 50 feet short, then skidded 100 yards on grass. Damage included propeller blades, collapsed nose gear, dented right wing leading edge, and substantial firewall damage.
Event Description
A pilot was performing a landing approach to runway 27, which measures 2,500 feet in length and 50 feet in width. While on approximately a one-mile final approach, the pilot recognized that the aircraft was low and slow and began gradually adding power. As the airplane crossed over a river bordering the eastern side of the runway—around a quarter-mile from the threshold—it experienced a loss of lift. The aircraft subsequently struck terrain just 50 feet short of the runway.
After the initial impact, the airplane veered onto a grassy area alongside the runway. It skidded for approximately 100 yards before coming to rest in an upright position.
Damage
The accident resulted in damage to both propeller blades. The nose gear collapsed rearward, and the leading edge of the right wing was dented due to contact with a runway edge light. Additionally, the aircraft sustained substantial damage to the firewall.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 19 Apr 2003 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Orofino, ID?
A pilot on final approach to runway 27 realized low and slow, added power, but the aircraft lost lift and impacted terrain 50 feet short, then skidded 100 yards on grass. Damage included propeller blades, collapsed nose gear, dented right wing leading edge, and substantial firewall damage.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Apr 2003 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N6268W, at Orofino, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's misjudgment of speed and distance resulting in a loss of airspeed, stall and undershoot of runway.