Piper PA-28-161 N260ND accident near Marlboro, Massachusetts

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper touchdown point and failure to perform a go-around in a timely manner, which resulted in a runway excursion.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot, he verified the wind direction and speed by observing the windsock before attempting to land. During the first attempt, he executed a go-around due to excessive altitude. During a second attempt, the pilot initiated a forward slip and landed the airplane two-thirds down the runway. After touchdown, he applied brake pressure, but the airplane continued off the end of the runway and impacted a fence, substantially damaging the fuselage and wings. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that it was the first time he had landed at the airport and that it was the shortest runway he had ever attempted to land on. The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if he had performed a go-around.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA10CA496 for the full record.