Most pilots have at one time or another read an NTSB accident report created by the independent US agency responsible for investigating mishaps in all forms of transportation. And most of us have thought: “Wow. I’d never do anything as crazy as that pilot.” Yet pilots of all categories continue to make mind-numbing mistakes in judgment when in command of an airplane. Sometimes pilots do make silly decisions and are lucky enough to get back on the ground safe and sound.
NTSB Reports Don’t Always Reveal the Complete Story
Key Takeaways:
- A private pilot with only 99 total flight hours, 54 of which were in a new and complex Piper M600, substantially damaged the aircraft during a crosswind landing after refusing factory training.
- The pilot's limited experience, decision to fly a sophisticated aircraft without proper training or insurance, and non-instrument rating for a high-altitude flight highlighted severe judgment and risk management issues.
- Although the NTSB report did not state a probable cause, experts attributed the accident to poor pilot technique, including excessive landing speed, incorrect roundout, and inability to handle crosswind conditions.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
