Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare and subsequent failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in gusting crosswind conditions.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the landing flare, it felt like "[something] pushed [the airplane] real hard from behind." He added that he applied power, but the airplane continued in a rapid descent. The airplane landed hard, bounced, and veered to the left upon the second touchdown. The pilot added full power and right rudder to recover, but the airplane exited the runway to the left and impacted a small hill.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located on the airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 310° at 12 knots, gusting to 19 knots. The airplane landed on runway 25.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA263 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 7, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Frankfort, Kentucky
- Nearest airport
- Capital City (FFT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA28R
- N-number
- N33006
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1975
- 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.