What happened
On January 27, 2006, a Piper PA46-350P Malibu Mirage, registration OE-KEU, was performing a VFR flight from Vienna to Prague. The flight proceeded normally until the landing phase at Prague Ruzyně Airport. Immediately after touchdown on runway 06, the aircraft veered to the left, crossing a snow barrier approximately 40 cm high and exiting the runway onto the adjacent grassy area.
During the excursion, the aircraft traveled approximately 177 meters before the left main landing gear leg failed, causing the wheel to detach. The aircraft continued for another 16 meters before coming to a stop. The impact resulted in significant damage to the aircraft, including a bent propeller, crumpled wing skin, and damage to the nose gear. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the aircraft's configuration and the pilot's actions. Investigators found that the rudder trim was set to the full left position. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was removed from the airport by an unknown party without notifying the commission, making a detailed technical assessment of the damage impossible. The weather at the time was clear with a light crosswind of 4–8 knots.
Findings
- The rudder trim was set to the extreme left position.
- The pilot's failure to manage the aircraft's directional control during the landing roll led to the excursion.
- A crosswind component likely contributed to the difficulty in maintaining the centerline.