Probable cause
The pilot’s inadvertent landing in snow adjacent to the snow-covered runway resulting in a collision with runway signs.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that following an instrument approach in light snow, he inadvertently landed in the safety area to the left of the snow-covered runway. During landing, both wings collided with runway signs. The pilot taxied the airplane to parking.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.
The pilot reported 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 GAA18CA094 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 28, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Spearfish, South Dakota
- Nearest airport
- Black Hills-Clyde Ice Field (SPF)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA32
- N-number
- N11KX
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1981
- 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.