Summary
On 27 January 2006, at 08:26 UTC, a Piper PA-46 Malibu Mirage (registration OE-KEU) operated by Enconet Consulting g.m.b.h. executed a controlled VFR flight from Vienna to Prague. After landing on runway 06 at Prague Ruzyně, the aircraft veered left during the landing roll, passed through a snow barrier approximately 40 cm high, and exited the runway onto the grass strip. The left main landing gear wheel sheared off after traveling 177 meters, and the aircraft continued another 16 meters before coming to rest heading 300°. The pilot and two passengers were not injured.
Factual Information
Aircraft and Crew
The aircraft was a Piper PA-46-350P Malibu Mirage, serial number 4636110, manufactured in 1997, with a total flight time of 1334 hours 45 minutes. It was powered by a Lycoming TIO-540 piston engine and equipped with a Hartzell constant-speed propeller. The pilot, aged 47, held a valid PPL and medical certificate, with 610 total flight hours (467 as PIC, 142 dual, 347 IFR). The aircraft had a valid airworthiness certificate and was maintained per regulations.
Accident Sequence
The flight was routine until landing. Immediately after touchdown, the aircraft veered left. It crossed a snow barrier, exited the runway, and the left main landing gear wheel detached. The aircraft came to rest on the grass strip, tilted left, with the left wing and nose touching the ground. The propeller blades were bent rearward, and the skin of the wing, tail, and fuselage was wrinkled. The nose landing gear was pushed under the fuselage. The rudder trim control was found set to full left deflection.
Meteorological Conditions
Conditions were clear with surface wind from 100-150° at 4-8 knots, visibility 7-10 km, no significant cloud, turbulence, or icing. The crosswind component likely influenced the excursion.
Investigation Limitations
The investigating commission could not perform a detailed examination because the owner removed the aircraft to an unknown location without notification. The extent of damage was assessed only by visual inspection at the airport.
Analysis
The investigation determined that the pilot had the required qualifications and the aircraft was serviceable. The rudder trim was found in the full left position. The crosswind from the right may have contributed to the veering, but the trim setting was considered the primary factor.
Conclusions
The commission could not definitively establish the cause due to the inability to inspect the aircraft. The probable cause was the rudder trim set to full left deflection, leading to a veer after touchdown due to a loss of piloting technique.
Safety Recommendations
No specific recommendations were issued; the matter was left to the Federal Office of Transport, Austria.