No fatalities

1993-09-05: Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) (N46DK) — DEKA Research & Development Company — Block Island, United States of America

Block Island, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On September 5, 1993, a Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) (registration N46DK) operated by DEKA Research & Development Company was involved in an aviation accident near Block Island, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper in-flight planning/decision by the pilot, and his failure to attain proper runway alignment. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781209667Data APIEditorial standards

During landing approach, the pilot made S-turns for spacing, then attempted a go-around due to an occupied runway but encountered power response issues, resulting in a hard landing. The right wing and gear struck the ground, collapsing the gear and causing a skid off the runway. A ground fire erupted after fuel line rupture.

Approach and Go-Around Attempt

During the approach to land, the pilot executed S-turns to ensure proper spacing from a preceding airplane. On short final, the pilot decided to go around because the runway was still not clear. However, he reported a lack of response concerning the power, leading him to abandon the go-around and land as originally planned.

Alignment and Impact

Attempting to align the airplane with the runway centerline, the pilot's efforts were unsuccessful. The right wing and landing gear struck the ground, causing the right landing gear to collapse. The airplane skidded off the right side of the runway.

Post-Impact Fire

During the accident sequence, the outward portion of the right wing was torn away from the airplane, and a fuel line was ruptured. A ground fire erupted and burned through the right side of the airplane's structure and right wing.

Mechanical Examination

No preimpact part failure or malfunction was reported.

Investigation Conclusion

The official investigation identified the probable cause as the pilot's improper in-flight planning/decision and his failure to attain proper runway alignment.