On October 31, 2006, a Piper PA32-301XTC (registration N506C) operated by Donald L Curry was involved in an aviation accident near San Marcos, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A single-engine airplane porpoised during landing on runway 26, resulting in nose landing gear collapse and propeller impact. The pilot and passenger exited unassisted; no fire occurred. Post-accident inspection found no pre-impact anomalies.
Accident Details
During the landing on Runway 26, which is a 6,330-foot long by 100-foot wide asphalt runway, the single-engine airplane bounced and began to porpoise. Each successive bounce increased in altitude until the airplane's nose landing gear collapsed and the propeller struck the ground. The airplane came to rest in the upright position, and the 735-hour private pilot and his passenger were able to exit the airplane unassisted. There was no fire.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident, investigators functionally checked the rudder pedals and confirmed continuity from the rudder pedals to the steering rods and rudder. No pre-impact anomalies were identified with the airplane's flight controls, nose landing gear, or steering mechanism. The reported wind at the time was from 250 degrees at 6 knots.
What happened in the 31 Oct 2006 Piper PA32-301XTC accident near San Marcos, TX?
A single-engine airplane porpoised during landing on runway 26, resulting in nose landing gear collapse and propeller impact. The pilot and passenger exited unassisted; no fire occurred. Post-accident inspection found no pre-impact anomalies.
Were there any fatalities in the 31 Oct 2006 Piper PA32-301XTC accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Oct 2006 involved a Piper PA32-301XTC, registration N506C, operated by Donald L Curry, at San Marcos, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing.
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