On 24 May 2008, a Piper PA-34-200T operated by Barry L. Hardesty was involved in an aviation accident near Sandusky, OH. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudging the flare and not maintaining airspeed during the landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot and safety pilot experienced a hard landing after the airplane became too slow on final approach during a simulated IFR cross-country flight, resulting in damage to the aircraft.
Accident Overview
A pilot and a safety pilot were conducting a simulated instrument flight rules (IFR) cross-country flight. The flight was intended to practice instrument procedures under controlled conditions.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, while on final approach, the airplane "got too slow." During the flare, the airplane "quit flying and dropped short" of the prepared runway surface. The resulting hard landing caused damage to the aircraft. The pilot reported that no mechanical malfunctions were noted during the flight.
Damage and Aftermath
The hard landing resulted in damage to the aircraft. No further details about the extent of the damage were provided. No mechanical issues were identified that could have contributed to the event.
Contributing factors
Incorrect use/operationAirspeed — Not attained/maintained
Related events
Same aircraft family
15 Aug 2024 — PIPER PA-34-200T (AIR TRAVEL MANAGEMENT LLC)