Casualties unknown

2007-06-30: Piper PA28R-200 (N41585) — Lubbock, TX

Lubbock, TX, US

On June 30, 2007, a Piper PA28R-200 (registration N41585) was involved in an aviation accident near Lubbock, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to maintain airspeed on short final resulting in a stall and a hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a power-off 180-degree approach to land, a private pilot stalled the airplane after overshooting the runway and applying excessive back pressure. The flight instructor could not immediately regain control, resulting in a hard landing that damaged both wings.

Approach and Initial Overshoot

The accident occurred during a power-off 180-degree approach to land conducted by a 253-hour private pilot and a 700-hour certificated flight instructor (CFI). While turning to final, the airplane overshot the runway.

Realignment and Airspeed

After realigning with the extended centerline, the flight instructor observed the airspeed indicating 70-75 knots as the single-engine airplane descended through 200 feet above ground level (AGL).

Excessive Back Pressure and Stall

As the airplane continued descending to approximately 30 feet AGL, the private pilot applied excessive back pressure, establishing a pronounced nose-high attitude. The flight instructor attempted to push the nose down but was unable to overpower the student. The flight instructor reported that the pilot did not immediately relinquish the controls when requested.

Final Descent and Hard Landing

Once the flight instructor regained control, he added power to counteract the descent; however, the airplane stalled at approximately 15 feet AGL and landed hard on the runway.

Aircraft Damage and Examination

An examination of the airplane revealed structural damage to both wings. No pre-impact anomalies with the airplane's controls were reported.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to maintain airspeed on short final resulting in a stall and a hard landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070731X01065. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.