Accident Overview
On February 23, 2009, at 1644 mountain standard time, a Piper PA-31T (N171AF) registered to and operated by Aero Oro LLC was substantially damaged during landing at Pueblo Memorial Airport (PUB) in Pueblo, Colorado. The airplane was on a positioning flight under 14 CFR Part 91 without a flight plan. The pilot, an airline transport pilot and the sole occupant, was not injured. The flight originated from Colorado Springs, Colorado, at approximately 1620.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported obtaining ATIS Information Alpha before arrival, which indicated moderate to strong westerly and gusty winds, along with a Low Level Wind Shear (LLWS) advisory. He maneuvered for an extended right base to runway 26R and configured the airplane for landing. Due to the wind conditions, he elected to approach 5 to 10 knots faster than normal, corresponding to 135 to 140 knots indicated airspeed. The approach and descent were described as normal, with several power adjustments to maintain airspeed and descent rate. During the flare, the pilot thought he saw something on the runway. A sudden loss of lift occurred, and he adjusted the pitch slightly upward to compensate. The touchdown was unusually hard, causing the airplane to bounce. Subsequently, the airplane became difficult to control in pitch and yaw, porpoising violently four or five times before the pilot managed to keep it on the ground and exit the runway.
Post-Accident Inspection
A post-accident inspection revealed substantial damage: the right wing was buckled, some engine mounts were broken, the cowling was wrinkled, and the engine was drooping from its mounts. Airport personnel checked the runway but found no debris.
Weather Conditions
Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time. The pilot reported moderate to strong westerly gusty winds and an active LLWS advisory.