On 19 Jan 2016, a PIPER PA32RT 300 was involved in an aviation accident near Melfa, VA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for a gusting crosswind during landing, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall, impact with a structure, and subsequent postimpact fire. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot reported that while landing in crosswind conditions, a wind gust forced the airplane to drift right. During the subsequent go-around, a sudden wind drop led to an aerodynamic stall. The airplane impacted a structure, caught fire, and was destroyed. No pre-impact mechanical failures were reported.
Accident Overview
The pilot reported that while landing in crosswind conditions, a wind gust "forced" the airplane to drift to the right of the runway. The pilot initiated a go-around, but further reported that a "sudden drop" in the wind led to an aerodynamic stall.
Impact and Fire
After the airplane stalled, it impacted a structure adjacent to the runway. A postimpact fire ensued, and the airplane was destroyed.
Mechanical Status
The pilot reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.