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NTSB Report
December 5, 2017 · Piper PA 32 260 · N4887S
Cheboygan, MI
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
December 5, 2017
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (4 uninjured)
Location
Cheboygan, MI
Aircraft
Piper PA 32 260 (1971)
Tail Number
N4887S
Operator
Great Lakes Air
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
GAA18CA081
According to the pilot, during approach to runway 28, he noticed that the vertical speed indicator showed an increase in the decent rate so he 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 28 kts gusting to 42 kts. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain the airplane’s rate of descent in gusting wind conditions resulting in a hard landing and runway excursion.
Full Narrative
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.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time11:30 EST
Nearest AirportCheboygan County (0nm E)
Runway28
Runway Length4005 ft
Runway Width75 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftPiper PA 32 260
Tail NumberN4887S
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorGreat Lakes Air
Operating RulePart 135
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-540-E4B5 · Reciprocating · 260
Seats6
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (4 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured4
Total4
Crew 1Age 28 · First Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind230° @ 28 kt, gusting 42 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingOvercast 2400 ft
Temperature / Dew Point36 C / 30 C
Altimeter29.38 inHg
Observation Time15:14
Weather SourceWFAC