Probable cause
The pilot's improper landing flare in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a bounced landing, loss of directional control, runway excursion, and impact with a tree.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was landing at his private airstrip and that the wind was strong and gusting. During the landing flare, the airplane bounced and then veered left. The airplane departed the runway, and the left wing struck a tree and separated, which resulted in substantial damage. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20CA117 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 8, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Eolia, Missouri
- Nearest airport
- Harvey (MO35)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA28-180
- N-number
- N7525W
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1963
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.