Probable cause
The pilot’s improper throttle input and failure to maintain aircraft control during landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the multi-engine airplane reported that during landing just before touchdown, the pilot proceeded to advance the throttles, but he inadvertently only advanced the throttle to the right engine and the airplane veered off the left side of the runway. Subsequently, the airplane impacted numerous tall shrubs, resulting in substantial damage to the wings.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation and that he should have undergone additional multi-engine refresher training with a flight instructor.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA007 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 6, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Gila Bend, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- Gila Bend Municipal Airport (E63)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-30
- N-number
- N8678Y
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1969
- 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.