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May 31, 2009 · Piper PA-28-181 · N811SA

Caldwell, NJ

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 31, 2009
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Caldwell, NJ
Aircraft
Piper PA-28-181
Tail Number
N811SA
Operator
Schultz Neal B
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ERA09CA322

The pilot stated that during landing the airplane drifted to the left side of the runway prior to touchdown. He attempted to correct with right rudder application but was unable because his shoe was lodged between an object and the rudder pedal. Slight aileron input was ineffective and additional aileron correction was not applied in order to prevent the right wing from contacting the runway. As the pilot applied full power for a go-around, the left flap contacted a runway edge light. The go-around was routine and the pilot returned and executed a normal landing. The left flap and left portion of the stabilator incurred damage. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical abnormalities present with the airplane prior to the flight.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during landing. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to ensure that he could operate the rudder pedals without interference.

Full Narrative

The pilot stated that during landing the airplane drifted to the left side of the runway prior to touchdown. He attempted to correct with right rudder application but was unable because his shoe was lodged between an object and the rudder pedal. Slight aileron input was ineffective and additional aileron correction was not applied in order to prevent the right wing from contacting the runway. As the pilot applied full power for a go-around, the left flap contacted a runway edge light. The go-around was routine and the pilot returned and executed a normal landing. The left flap and left portion of the stabilator incurred damage. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical abnormalities present with the airplane prior to the flight.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time17:38 EDT
Nearest AirportEssex County Airport (0nm)
Runway22
Runway Length4553 ft
Runway Width80 ft
Flight Plan FiledUnknown
Flight Plan ActivatedYes
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftPiper PA-28-181
Tail NumberN811SA
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorSchultz Neal B
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-360 SERIES · Reciprocating · 180
Seats4

People & Injuries

Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 61 · Third Class · None

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind300° @ 10 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingBroken clouds 9000 ft
Temperature / Dew Point48
Altimeter29.69 inHg
Observation Time23:53
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data