Piper PA-31T N171AF accident near Pueblo, Colorado

Probable cause

The pilot's improper flare and recovery from a bounced landing.

NTSB analysis

The pilot said that while en route, he obtained Automatic Terminal Information Alpha that reported moderate to strong westerly and gusting winds. A Low-Level Wind Shear advisory was also in effect. He maneuvered the airplane for an extended right base to runway 26R and configured the airplane for landing. Due to the reported winds and advisory, he elected to approach 5 to 10 knots faster, or approximately 135 to 140 knots indicated airspeed. The approach and descent were normal, and he made several power changes to maintain airspeed and rates 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 touchdown was "unusually hard" and the airplane bounced. The airplane then became hard to control in the pitch and yaw axes, porpoising "violently" 4 or 5 times before he was able to keep it on the ground and exit the runway. Postaccident 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. Airport personnel drove the length of the runway but found no debris.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA173 for the full record.