On January 19, 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.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 19 Jan 2016 PIPER PA32RT 300 accident near Melfa, VA?
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.
Were there any fatalities in the 19 Jan 2016 PIPER PA32RT 300 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Jan 2016 involved a PIPER PA32RT 300, at Melfa, VA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
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.