On 21 Sep 2015, a PIPER PA 32-260 260 was involved in an aviation accident near Jackpot, NV. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and a collision with a fence. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During landing roll, a dust devil struck the airplane, causing it to veer off the runway and into a fence, resulting in substantial left wing damage. No mechanical issues were reported.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during the landing roll, a "dust devil hit the rear" of the airplane, causing it to be "thrown into the right lane and sliding the airplane sideways down the runway." The airplane then veered off the left side of the runway, crossed a dirt berm, and impacted a fence with the left wing.
Pilot Account
The pilot stated that 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 left wing.
Witness Report
A witness present at the airport reported that the wind was calm throughout the day.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the left wing of the airplane. No other damage was reported.
Contributing factors
PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained