Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, after a normal touchdown, the airplane's nose dropped, and he added power. Subsequently, the airplane bounced, exited the runway to the right, and came to rest nose down.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall and engine mounts.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA422 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 15, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Marion, Iowa
- Nearest airport
- Marion (C17)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA32
- N-number
- N31841
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1978
- 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.