N4887S

Substantial
None

PIPER PA 32S/N: 32-7100011

Accident Details

Date
Tuesday, December 5, 2017
NTSB Number
GAA18CA081
Location
Cheboygan, MI
Event ID
20171211X60452
Coordinates
45.654167, -84.513885
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
4
Total Aboard
4

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to maintain the airplane’s rate of descent in gusting wind conditions resulting in a hard landing and runway excursion.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
32-7100011
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1971
Model / ICAO
PA 32M600
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
6
FAA Model
PA-32-260

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
SLATER MICHAEL C
Address
PO BOX 295
City
STILLMORE
State / Zip Code
GA 30464-0295
Country
United States

Analysis

According to the pilot, during approach to runway 28, "I noticed the VSI showed a dramatic increase in the decent rate and I applied full power."

He reported that the airplane landed hard, and he heard a "pop," and believed that the main landing gear tires had failed. The airplane exited the right side of the runway and struck a runway light.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the aft bulkhead, stringer and skin.

According to the METAR at the accident airport, about the time of the accident the wind was from 230° at 28kts gusting to 42kts.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane 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# GAA18CA081