NTSB Factual Report

On February 8, 2004, at 1945 eastern standard time, a Piper PA-32-260, N1563X, was substantially damaged during landing at the Perkiomen Valley Airport (N10), Collegeville, Pennsylvania. The certificated commercial pilot and passenger were not injured. Night visual meteorological conditions prevailed and an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan was filed for the flight which originated at the Florence Regional Airport (FLO), Florence, South Carolina. The personal flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

According to the pilot, while on final approach for runway 27 at N10, the airplane's right wing "apparently struck one or more limbs of a tree." The pilot continued toward the runway and struck "an object" at the end of the runway, sheering off the right landing gear. The pilot applied power, and continued to fly down the runway to observe further obstructions. He then returned to land on runway 09. As the airplane touched down, it swerved off the right side of the runway, and came to rest in the grass.

Examination of the accident scene by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed the airplane struck trees at the approach end of runway 27, as well as a snowbank 100 feet prior to the runway threshold. Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the right wing, and tree bark imbedded in the fuselage section.

According to the Northeast U.S. Airport Facility Directory, a "tree" notation was listed for runway 27 at N10. Additionally, runway 27 was a 2,950-foot long, and 40-foot wide runway, with a displaced threshold.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from trees during approach to the runway. Factors in the accident were the dark night and snowbank.