26 Aug 2015: PIPER PA 28-180 180

26 Aug 2015: PIPER PA 28-180 180 — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Susanville, CA, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed control during the landing in gusty wind conditions, resulting in an abnormal runway contact, and collision with terrain.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported that while en route to his destination, the wind at the destination airport was reported as 180 degrees magnetic, and19 to 22 knots, gusting 25 to 28 knots.

The pilot reported that he added 5 knots to the "normal speed" of 70 knots for approach to "help compensate" for the gusts. About 20 feet above the ground, the airspeed "suddenly dropped" to 60 knots, the pilot added full power in an attempt to go-around, the left wing "abruptly lifted", and according to the pilot, "all remaining altitude was quickly lost". The airplane's right wing impacted the ground and the airplane cart-wheeled.

The pilot reported there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, and both wings.

Contributing factors

cause Pilot
cause Airspeed — Not attained/maintained
cause Response/compensation

Conditions

Weather: VMC, wind 230/14kt, vis 10sm

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