N27231

Substantial
None

PIPER PA-31-350S/N: 31-7752106

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, October 10, 2009
NTSB Number
ANC10CA002
Location
Nondalton, AK
Event ID
20091013X44018
Coordinates
59.979999, -154.839172
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's decision to attempt a landing in weather conducive to strong downdrafts, resulting in a loss of control.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N27231
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
31-7752106
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1977
Model / ICAO
PA-31-350PA31
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Multi Engine
No. of Engines
2

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
LAKE CLARK AIR INC
Address
THE FARM LODGE
Status
Deregistered
City
PORT ALSWORTH
State / Zip Code
AK 99653
Country
United States

Analysis

The solo airline transport pilot reported he was landing a twin-engine airplane on a gravel-covered airstrip, at the conclusion of a Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 positioning flight. He reported that while on final approach, the airplane "encountered a sinker" and it began to descend below his anticipated approach path. He added full engine power to stop the descent, but the airplane continued to descend, and it landed hard on the right side of the runway. During touchdown, the airplane’s landing gear collapsed, and it continued to slide for about 150 yards, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane. A weather reporting station 14 miles south of the accident site reported wind from 110 degrees at 24 knots, gusting to 35 knots 12 minutes before the accident.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC10CA002