On February 2, 2004, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N8936W) was involved in an aviation accident near Knox City, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to land on soft ground, which resulted in loss of directional control. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot lost control of his aircraft after the left main landing gear sank into soft ground during a field landing at his ranch.
What happened
During a cross-country flight, the pilot, who held a private certificate with approximately 194 hours of total time, elected to land in a field located at his ranch. Upon touchdown, the left main landing gear tire sank into the soft ground surface. This event caused the pilot to lose directional control of the aircraft.
The aircraft began to turn sharply to the left. In response, the pilot applied right rudder pressure in an attempt to counteract the yaw and maintain a straight path. Despite these efforts, the corrective input was unsuccessful. The pilot later reported that the field conditions were soft, which contributed to the gear sinking.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to land on soft ground, which resulted in loss of directional control.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 Feb 2004 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Knox City, TX?
A private pilot lost control of his aircraft after the left main landing gear sank into soft ground during a field landing at his ranch.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Feb 2004 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N8936W, at Knox City, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to land on soft ground, which resulted in loss of directional control.
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