On 24 Nov 2017, an AVEKO SRO VL-3C-1 NO SERIES was involved in an aviation accident near NORTHAMPTON, MA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a loss of directional control and subsequent impact with approach lighting. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During landing flare, the airplane ballooned after the pilot applied back pressure to reduce airspeed, then porpoised and veered left off the runway, striking visual approach slope indicator lights.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during the landing flare, the airplane was traveling too fast. In an attempt to reduce airspeed, the pilot applied back pressure, but the airplane ballooned instead of settling. After touching down, the airplane porpoised, then veered to the left and exited the left side of the runway. The airplane subsequently struck visual approach slope indicator (VASI) lights located on the left side of the runway.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and the fuselage as a result of the impact with the VASI lights.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures were present that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.
Contributing factors
PilotLanding flare — Not attained/maintainedDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedContributed to outcome