Probable cause
The pilot's descent below the intended glidepath during the approach, which resulted in an impact with a ditch prior to the runway.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during approach, he reduced power and was convinced he had enough altitude to land on the grass runway. The pilot further reported that the airplane impacted a ditch prior to the runway which resulted in a sheared nose landing gear, collapsed main gear, and then slid about 200 feet.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA471 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 6, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Hillsboro, Ohio
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA24
- N-number
- N7292P
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1961
- 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.