Piper PA 32-260 N3FN accident near Lebanon, Ohio

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during landing which resulted in a runway excursion.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported he encountered wind gusts and turbulence on final approach to the runway but stated the air became calm approximately 300 feet above the ground. During the flare, as the wheels touched down, the pilot stated he encountered a gust of wind that caused the airplane to veer left off the runway with the left main wheel traveling into the grass. The pilot initiated a go-around; however, the airplane did not gain altitude and the pilot "lost control of the airplane." The airplane veered right, crossed the runway and travelled up an embankment. The pilot reported there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane. A post-accident examination revealed the airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.

In the pilot's written statement to the National Transportation Safety Board he noted that the accident might have been prevented if he focused on maintaining control of the airplane after touch down and not attempted a go-around, or made the decision to go-around sooner.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN14CA285 for the full record.