On March 12, 2013, a PIPER PA-24-400 was involved in an aviation accident near Minden, NV. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper flare, which resulted in a bounced landing and a loss of directional control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During landing, the pilot reported strong crosswind and a hard touchdown causing three bounces, propeller strikes, nose gear damage, and loss of control, resulting in a runway excursion and collapsed landing gear.
Landing Attempt
The pilot reported that during the landing, he crossed the threshold at 85 to 90 knots with 15 degrees of flaps. As the airplane floated down the runway about 3 to 4 feet above the surface, the pilot utilized the electric trim. The airplane subsequently touched down hard and bounced three times, striking the propeller on the runway each time.
Loss of Control
The nose gear was damaged and the pilot was unable to maintain directional control with braking action and rudder control. The airplane departed the side of the runway, collapsing the landing gear.
Postaccident Examination
Postaccident examination of the airplane's belly revealed that five bulkheads from the firewall aft were bent.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 12 Mar 2013 PIPER PA-24-400 accident near Minden, NV?
During landing, the pilot reported strong crosswind and a hard touchdown causing three bounces, propeller strikes, nose gear damage, and loss of control, resulting in a runway excursion and collapsed landing gear.
Were there any fatalities in the 12 Mar 2013 PIPER PA-24-400 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Mar 2013 involved a PIPER PA-24-400, at Minden, NV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's improper flare, which resulted in a bounced landing and a loss of directional control.