20 May 2009: PIPER PA-20 — Frank Klein

20 May 2009: PIPER PA-20 — Frank Klein

No fatalities • Glendale, AZ, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions and failure to maintain directional control on the landing roll out.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported a normal flight to the accident airport. He set up for landing in the 50-degree crosswind with no unusual drift noted on final approach, followed by a normal landing. The pilot stated that the next thing he recalled the left wing dropped, and the airplane was skidding to the right across the runway and impacting a runway light. After coming to a stop he obtained permission to taxi the airplane to a tie down spot. The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the airplane. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, the airplane spun round to the right, which caused structural damage to the left wing and elevator.

Contributing factors

  • cause Directional control — Not attained/maintained
  • cause Response/compensation
  • cause Pilot

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 060/10kt, vis 20sm

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