Accident Details
The pilot of a Piper PA-31-450 reported that the aircraft experienced no mechanical or performance problems during the instrument flight and subsequent visual approach. According to the pilot, landing unusually close to the runway threshold was his habitual practice. He considered the approach to be "perfect" until, at the "last minute," he perceived the airplane was "just a little low" and attempted a correction. The aircraft then struck the runway surface with a "hard hit," and the pilot believed the main wheels contacted the lip at the end of the runway pavement.
Post-Impact Sequence
Following the impact, the airplane came to rest straddling the right edge of the runway. Landing gear damage prevented taxiing. The pilot, noting no other individuals were present at the time, kept watch for any aircraft that might attempt to take off or land on the runway until air traffic control was notified and the airport was closed.
Ground Evidence
Ground scars observed at the scene were consistent with the landing gear making contact just short of the runway's beginning. The accident flight was the pilot's third visit to this airport. The pilot stated that neither the weather nor the airport presented any hazards to the landing.