Summary
On June 19, 2010, a Piper PA-11 (N4969M) was involved in an incident near Leander, TX. All 1 person aboard were uninjured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this incident to be: The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from trees during approach.
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.
This incident is documented in NTSB report CEN10CA419. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N4969M.
Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from trees during approach.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
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