This February 2009 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Piper Cheyenne. Injuries: None. Location: Pueblo, Colo. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot obtained the ATIS information for the airport, noting that it reported moderate to strong westerly and gusting winds. A low-level wind shear advisory was also in effect. The pilot maneuvered for an extended right base to runway 26R and configured the airplane for landing. Because of the winds the pilot elected to do the approach 5 to 10 knots faster than normal or approximately 135 to 140 KIAs. He made several power changes to maintain airspeed and rate of descent consistent with the reported wind conditions. As he flared for landing, he thought that he saw something on the runway. There was a sudden loss of lift, and he adjusted the pitch slightly up to compensate. The airplane touched down hard and bounced back into the air. It came down again, pitching and yawing before it came to a stop.
The post-accident inspection revealed that the right wing was buckled, some engine mounts were broken, the cowling was wrinkled, and the engine was drooping from its mounts. After the landing airport personnel drove the length of the runway but found no debris.
Probable cause: The pilot’s improper flare and recovery from a bounced landing.
For more information: NTSB.gov
