On 12 Aug 2012, a PIPER PA-22 operated by Brian Harkins was involved in an aviation accident near Napa, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to execute an adequate landing flare, leading to a bounced touchdown and a subsequent loss of directional control during the landing roll. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot lost directional control of a tailwheel aircraft after a bounced touchdown, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing.
What happened
On August 12, 2012, a Piper PA-22 was performing a landing in Napa, California, under visual meteorological conditions with a visibility of 10 statute miles and winds from 170 degrees at 10 knots. While the pilot was landing the aircraft, N3580A, in a slight crab, the airplane bounced upon touchdown. Following the bounce, the pilot was unable to maintain directional control, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway. The excursion resulted in substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported no injuries and stated there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures prior to the impact that would have prevented normal operation.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to execute an adequate landing flare, leading to a bounced touchdown and a subsequent loss of directional control during the landing roll.
Contributing factors
Incorrect use/operationDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot