N4969M

Substantial
None

PIPER PA-11S/N: 11-456

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, June 19, 2010
NTSB Number
CEN10CA419
Location
Leander, TX
Event ID
20100722X42234
Coordinates
30.601943, -97.818885
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 failure to maintain clearance from trees during approach.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
11-456
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1948
Model / ICAO
PA-11PA11
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
PA-11

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
MOTES JAMES T
Address
4231 POST RD
City
WINSTON
State / Zip Code
GA 30187-1139
Country
United States

Analysis

While on a low final approach, the tailwheel-equipped single-engine airplane experienced a downdraft over an area of trees. The pilot initiated full engine power; however, the airplane continued to settle until the right landing gear impacted the top branches of a tree. The pilot was able to continue the approach and landed successfully. Once back to the hangar the pilot exited the airplane and discovered that the fuselage had sustained structural damage during the impact.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN10CA419