N3046H

Destroyed
Minor

PIPER PA32RTS/N: 32R-7985046

Accident Details

Date
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
NTSB Number
GAA16CA110
Location
Melfa, VA
Event ID
20160121X02154
Coordinates
37.646945, -75.762222
Aircraft Damage
Destroyed
Highest Injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
1
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's inadequate compensation for a gusting crosswind during landing, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall, impact with a structure, and subsequent postimpact fire.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N3046H
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
32R-7985046
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1979
Model / ICAO
PA32RTP32R
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
CRILLY FERRIS A
Address
9151 OGDEN PARK CT
Status
Deregistered
City
BRISTOW
State / Zip Code
VA 20136-2159
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that while landing in crosswind conditions, a wind gust "forced" the airplane to drift to the right of the runway. The pilot initiated a go-around, but further reported that a "sudden drop" in the wind led to an aerodynamic stall.

After the airplane stalled, it impacted a structure adjacent to the runway. A postimpact fire ensued and the airplane was destroyed.

The pilot reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA16CA110