Landing Gear Removed After Runway Excursion

Casualties unknown • Price, UT, US

Aircraft departed the right side of the runway during landing in crosswind conditions, striking rocks that removed the fixed landing gear and bent the engine mount.

What happened

The pilot attempted to land on runway 36 while encountering a crosswind from 290 degrees at 13 knots. During the landing roll, the airplane departed the right side of the runway surface. The aircraft then struck rocks located off the pavement, which resulted in the removal of the fixed landing gear.

The investigation

Post-accident examination revealed significant structural damage. The engine mount was found to be bent, and the bottom of the fuselage forward of the wings exhibited wrinkling. Additionally, the empennage was bent. Despite these damages, flight control continuity was confirmed, and no other anomalies were identified during the inspection.

Findings

The primary factor leading to this incident was the runway excursion to the right side during landing in crosswind conditions. The impact with rocks off the runway surface caused the loss of the fixed landing gear and subsequent structural deformation.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a runway excursion.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-05-31 Piper PA-28-150 accident near Price, UT?

Aircraft departed the right side of the runway during landing in crosswind conditions, striking rocks that removed the fixed landing gear and bent the engine mount.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-05-31 involved a Piper PA-28-150, registration N5886W, operated by Utah Aircraft Alliance, at Price, UT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a runway excursion.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030603X00777. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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