On April 26, 2020, a Piper PA 20 Undesignat was involved in an aviation accident near Colorado Springs, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructor's improper landing flare, which resulted in a bounced landing, and his subsequent loss of directional control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A flight instructor of a tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced bounces during a three-point full stall landing in a crosswind. The aircraft veered right after touchdown, exited the runway, and struck terrain with the left wingtip and nose, resulting in substantial damage.
Accident Details
A flight instructor flying a tailwheel-equipped airplane attempted a three-point, full stall landing in a right-quartering crosswind of about 4 knots. During the touchdown sequence, the airplane experienced a small bounce, which the instructor described as minor and controllable. After another touchdown, the application of further aft yoke led to a second small bounce, followed by a final touchdown. Once the airplane was on the runway, the instructor applied full aft yoke, causing the aircraft to immediately veer to the right and exit the runway. The instructor attempted to correct the direction with full left rudder, but the airplane continued off the right side of the runway and contacted terrain with the left wingtip and nose. The airplane came to rest upright.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and left aileron.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the airplane revealed no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Instructor/check pilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedLanding flare — Not attained/maintained
What happened in the 26 Apr 2020 Piper PA 20 Undesignat accident near Colorado Springs, CO?
A flight instructor of a tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced bounces during a three-point full stall landing in a crosswind. The aircraft veered right after touchdown, exited the runway, and struck terrain with the left wingtip and nose, resulting in substantial damage.
Were there any fatalities in the 26 Apr 2020 Piper PA 20 Undesignat accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Apr 2020 involved a Piper PA 20 Undesignat, at Colorado Springs, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The flight instructor's improper landing flare, which resulted in a bounced landing, and his subsequent loss of directional control.
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