Challenger II N2621T accident near Oakdale, California

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to attain a proper touchdown point and his subsequent loss of directional control during landing for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination of the airframe and engine did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB analysis

The commercial pilot landed the airplane left of the approach end of the runway on the runway safety area (RSA). Examination of tire tacks indicated that the airplane then veered left, travelled about 70 ft, and subsequently impacted the pilot's truck, which was in front of his hangar. A postimpact fire ensued.

Postaccident examination of the airplane and engine revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Although one of the witnesses stated that the engine did not sound normal, given that the other witness stated that the engine sounded normal during the flight and no anomalies were found with the engine, it was likely producing power during the accident sequence.

Based on the available evidence, it is likely that the pilot failed to attain a proper touchdown point, which resulted in the airplane landing on the RSA. The pilot then failed to maintain directional control for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR17FA077 for the full record.