On July 16, 2012, a PIPER PA32-301FT operated by GARRETT JOHN C was involved in an aviation accident near Brevard, NC. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to execute a go-around following an approach that was high and fast, which resulted in a runway overrun. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During approach, pilot stayed high to avoid a tree, then landed long on a 2,900-ft runway, overran, struck a sign, and stopped in brambles. Firewall damaged; no mechanical anomalies found.
Accident Sequence
While on approach to a runway, the pilot of the airplane attempted to avoid a tree located near the end of the runway. To avoid the tree, he “stayed high” until clearing the approach end and then attempted to “drop quickly” to the field. The airplane touched down on the left main landing gear roughly 2,000 feet beyond the threshold of the 2,900-foot long runway. The pilot applied the brakes but was unable to stop the airplane before it overran the runway.
Postaccident Findings
The right main landing gear struck an airport sign, and the airplane came to rest in brambles approximately 100 feet beyond the departure end of the runway. A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the firewall. No evidence of any preexisting mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation was discovered during the examination.
Pilot Statement
During a postaccident interview, the pilot stated that after the accident he discovered that the tree he had attempted to avoid was actually located to the right of the runway.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 16 Jul 2012 PIPER PA32-301FT accident near Brevard, NC?
During approach, pilot stayed high to avoid a tree, then landed long on a 2,900-ft runway, overran, struck a sign, and stopped in brambles. Firewall damaged; no mechanical anomalies found.
Were there any fatalities in the 16 Jul 2012 PIPER PA32-301FT accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Jul 2012 involved a PIPER PA32-301FT, operated by GARRETT JOHN C, at Brevard, NC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot’s failure to execute a go-around following an approach that was high and fast, which resulted in a runway overrun.