What happened
On February 6, 2019, a Piper PA 46-350P, registration N997MA, was involved in an accident during a flight intended for commercial pilot maneuver practice. The flight, operated under Part 91 regulations, included maneuvers such as slow flight, chandelles, and eights on pylons. As the aircraft entered the traffic pattern to practice a power-off 180-degree landing, the pilot reduced power to idle while abeam the 1,000-foot runway markings and initiated a left turn toward the runway.
During this maneuver, the pilot realized the aircraft was not on the correct final course and was unlikely to reach the runway. The pilot attempted to correct the situation by pulling up on the control yoke and applying right rudder, though it was unclear if additional power was applied. Video footage of the incident captured the aircraft performing a left turn while descending. The aircraft's left bank leveled out before transitioning into a steep left bank, followed by a right bank, as it struck the ground short of the runway. The impact caused substantial damage to the fuselage and the right wing. The pilot and flight instructor both sustained serious injuries.
Findings
There were no reported mechanical failures or anomalies present in the aircraft prior to the impact. The accident occurred as the pilot was attempting to manage the aircraft's descent and course during a simulated power-off landing maneuver, specifically involving an uncontrolled descent and bank deviation while short of the runway.