PIPER PA 32
Cheboygan, MI, December 5, 2017
Event Information
| Date | December 5, 2017 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| Location | Cheboygan, MI |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 45.65417, -84.51389 |
| Airport | CHEBOYGAN COUNTY |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
| NTSB Number | GAA18CA081 |
| Event ID | 20171211X60452 |
Aircraft
| Make | PIPER |
| Model | PA 32 |
| Registration # | N4887S |
| Operator | GREAT LAKES AIR. INC |
| Owner | GREAT LAKES AIR. INC |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 135 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 4 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain the airplane’s rate of descent in gusting wind conditions resulting in a hard landing and runway excursion.
Full Narrative
According to the pilot, during approach to runway 28, "I noticed the VSI showed a dramatic increase in the decent rate and I applied full power."
He reported that the airplane landed hard, and he heard a "pop," and believed that the main landing gear tires had failed. The airplane exited the right side of the runway and struck a runway light.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the aft bulkhead, stringer and skin.
According to the METAR at the accident airport, about the time of the accident the wind was from 230° at 28kts gusting to 42kts.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane 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.