On 28 Feb 2014, a PARTENAVIA S.P.A. P 68 OBSERVER C operated by Paragon Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Molokai, HI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate decision to continue an unstable approach in dark night conditions, which resulted in a collision with trees and hard landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB.
A pilot conducting a night landing experienced a hard landing after the airplane's right wing struck trees during final approach, causing substantial damage. No mechanical issues were reported.
Flight Details
The pilot reported that the flight was conducted at night. During the approach, the pilot used the GPS track to align with the runway. When the runway lights were activated, the airplane was approximately 1/4 mile left of the runway centerline and about 1/2 mile from the approach end.
Accident Sequence
To correct the alignment, the pilot executed an aggressive right turn followed by a hard left turn to position the airplane for landing. While maneuvering on short final at an altitude of about 50 feet above ground level, the right wing impacted the tops of trees lining the southeast side of the runway. This caused the airplane to descend rapidly and land hard, collapsing the landing gear. The impact spun the airplane approximately 180 degrees laterally, and it came to rest against some trees.
Aftermath
The right wing's contact with trees and the subsequent hard landing resulted in substantial damage to the airplane. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Causes
PilotDescent/approach/glide path — Not attained/maintained