PIPER PA32RT
Melfa, VA — January 19, 2016
Event Information
| Date | January 19, 2016 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA16CA110 |
| Event ID | 20160121X02154 |
| Location | Melfa, VA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 37.64695, -75.76222 |
| Airport | ACCOMACK COUNTY |
| Highest Injury | MINR |
Aircraft
| Make | PIPER |
| Model | PA32RT |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | DEST |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 1 |
| None | 0 |
| Total Injured | 1 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for a gusting crosswind during landing, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall, impact with a structure, and subsequent postimpact fire.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that while landing in crosswind conditions, a wind gust "forced" the airplane to drift to the right of the runway. The pilot initiated a go-around, but further reported that a "sudden drop" in the wind led to an aerodynamic stall.
After the airplane stalled, it impacted a structure adjacent to the runway. A postimpact fire ensued and the airplane was destroyed.
The pilot reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.