On 11 Feb 2014, a PIPER PA 38-112 operated by Connecticut Flight Academy was involved in an aviation accident near West Milford, NJ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the pilot-in-command to maintain directional control during landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A private pilot in command reported that after touchdown, the airplane veered left and skidded into a snowbank. No mechanical failure was found.
Approach and Landing
The pilot-in-command, a private-rated pilot seated in the right seat, reported that during the approach to runway 24, the wind was from 280 degrees at 6 knots. The airplane touched down slightly left of the runway centerline with the nose turned to the left.
Loss of Control
Following touchdown, the airplane veered to the left, and the pilot was unable to correct the deviation. The airplane subsequently skidded into a snowbank adjacent to the runway.
Post-Event Examination
The pilot and the operator reported that there was no preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction with the airplane. No further details regarding damage or injuries were provided in the initial report.
Contributing factors
Causes
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot