Colorado Aviation Accidents & Incidents

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2310 Total Accidents 425 Fatal 816 Fatalities 1982-2026
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Pagosa Springs, Colorado

October 14, 2010 · NTSB CEN11CA031 · BEECH A36 (N4979M)
Minor/None
Note: This analysis may be based on NTSB preliminary reports, which represent an initial, incomplete investigation. Facts can change as the investigation progresses, and preliminary findings should not be assumed to be accurate or final. For older events, a final NTSB report may have been issued — always consult the NTSB Aviation Query for the authoritative record.

NTSB Narrative

The private pilot was landing on a 8,100 foot long hard surface runway in dry conditions with clear skies and calm wind. During the final approach to the runway, the pilot stated that he allowed the airplane to develop a high sink rate which he did not correct. The airplane “hit the runway and porpoised twice”. The nose-gear fork then fractured and separated, and the propeller struck the runway surface. The airplane received substantial damage to the forward fuselage and nose-gear. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The pilot's improper flare, which resulted in a hard landing.

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NTSB Findings

  • Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Descent rate-Incorrect use/operation - C
  • Personnel issues-Action/decision-Action-Lack of action-Pilot - C
  • Personnel issues-Psychological-Attention/monitoring-Task monitoring/vigilance-Pilot

Details

NTSB ReportCEN11CA031
AircraftBEECH A36
RegistrationN4979M
DamageSUBS
FAR Part091
Location37.2850, -107.0536
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