NTSB Factual Report

On February 1, 2003, about 1430 Pacific standard time, a Piper PA-28-140, N75392, sustained substantial damage when the airplane departed the runway edge and encountered rough terrain during landing at the Prosser Municipal Airport, Prosser, Washington. The student pilot, the sole occupant of the airplane, was not injured. The airplane is owned by Noland Decoto Flying Service of Yakima, Washington, and was being operated as a visual flight rules (VFR) instructional flight under the provisions of Title 14, CFR Part 91, when the accident occurred. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a flight plan had been filed. The round-robin cross-country flight originated from Yakima, with intermediate stops in Walla Walla, Washington, and Prosser.

During a telephone conversation with the National Transportation Safety Board on February 4, and subsequent written report dated February 6, the student pilot reported that his descent to the airport and approach to runway 25 was normal with the exception of a minor crosswind correction for winds blowing from the north. The pilot reported that when the airplane touched down it momentarily ballooned and drifted to the left (south). He stated that he held the airplane "steady" and when the airplane touched down a second time, it touched down on the runway edge with the left wheel off the runway. The airplane turned sharply to the south and exited the runway. After exiting the runway the airplane traveled across rough uneven terrain and an adjacent taxiway, eventually coming to rest south of the intended runway.

No mechanical difficulties or malfunctions were reported.

NTSB Probable Cause

Improper flare while landing. Factors include rough uneven terrain.