N61FD

On October 25, 1996, about 1130 eastern daylight time, a Siai Marchetti F206C, N61FD, registered to a private owner was substantially damage during a landing, near Kissimmee, Florida. The airline transport rated pilot, and a commercial pilot were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed in the vicinity, and no flight plan had been filed. The local business flight was being conducted in accordance with title 14 CFR Part 91.

According to the pilot, as Chief Pilot of Fighter Pilots USA, he was to fly with another pilot on a refresher ride. He said he was acting as pilot-in-command (PIC), and he briefed the mission to the other pilot, to included air work maneuvers.

The PIC said that the flight approached the field from the west, with the intent to land on runway 15. He said, "...the winds were variable, visibility was reduced due to haze and the sky was clear of clouds." He further stated that as he set up for the approach, "the haze was still present and our visibility was aggravated by the sun angle." On short final the flight descended below the tree line, and a "sink rate developed before power could be increased." The pilot had to initiate a go-around because of a high sink rate and premature touchdown on the threshold of the prepared runway surface. He made a low pass over the airport, and received visual conformation that the landing gear were down from the airport manager. He then made a second approach, and the airplane veered to the left after touchdown. The pilot's attorney notified the Safety Board of the damages to the airplane on December 19, 1996.