Aircraft veers off runway during touch-and-go approach

Casualties unknown • Brooksville, FL, US

A pilot practicing instrument approaches veered off the left side of the runway onto grass terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.

What happened

A pilot-in-command was conducting instrument approach practice to runway 09 accompanied by a safety pilot. As the aircraft reached an indicated altitude of approximately 700 feet, the pilot removed the view-limiting device to transition from an instrument flight to a visual approach for a touch-and-go maneuver.

Upon landing, the pilot pushed the propeller lever forward and applied full engine power. During this phase, the aircraft veered off the left side of the runway onto grass terrain. The incident resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft, and there were no injuries reported.

The investigation

An Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic inspected the aircraft following the accident. The inspection revealed no discrepancies with the steering systems. Additionally, the flight controls were found to be operating normally, and the brake system was confirmed to be functioning properly.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-04-28 Piper PA32-301 accident near Brooksville, FL?

A pilot practicing instrument approaches veered off the left side of the runway onto grass terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-04-28 involved a Piper PA32-301, registration N146SW, at Brooksville, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot-in-command failure to maintain directional control during takeoff after landing, which resulted in the airplane exiting the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050513X00608. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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