PIPER PA-28R-200

St. George, UT — May 26, 2010

Event Information

DateMay 26, 2010
Event TypeACC
NTSB NumberWPR10CA266
Event ID20100527X12140
LocationSt. George, UT
CountryUSA
Coordinates37.09056, -113.59306
AirportSt. George Municipal
Highest InjuryNONE

Aircraft

MakePIPER
ModelPA-28R-200
CategoryAIR
FAR Part091
Aircraft DamageSUBS

Conditions

Light ConditionDAYL
WeatherVMC

Injuries

Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
None2
Total Injured0

Event Location

Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind conditions and failure to maintain directional control during landing.

Full Narrative

The pilot stated that he and a passenger flew to St. George on a scenic flight. When approaching St. George, the pilot reported that the wind was generally from the south to southwest; however, with each weather report update the wind direction and speed varied, and the winds were gusty. On final approach, the pilot noted that he needed a significant amount of left rudder and right aileron pressure to maintain alignment with the center line of the runway. Just before landing, the pilot released some of the right aileron pressure, and the airplane drifted left of the runway centerline. When the main gear touched the ground the pilot applied full right aileron pressure. At that time, the airplane briefly lifted off the ground again and the nose turned to the left. The airplane began to veer off the left side of the runway into the dirt on the side of the runway towards a set of hangars. The pilot stated that he thought about performing a go-around, but did not think he would have cleared the hangar. At this point the pilot applied the brakes to stop the airplane but impacted the hangar. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the wing.

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.

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