This May 2009 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Piper Cherokee. Injuries: None. Location: Caldwell, N.J. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: During the approach the airplane drifted to the left side of the runway. The pilot attempted to correct with right rudder application but was unable to because his shoe got caught between an object and the rudder pedal. As the pilot applied full power for a go-around, the left flap hit a runway edge light. The go-around was routine and the pilot returned and executed a normal landing.
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to ensure that he could operate the rudder pedals without interference.
For more information: NTSB.Gov
