Why does the right side of a Piper Navaho receive more damage in a crash?

[Danger]

Hi guys;
Got a question that has me scratching my head. The new server at my favourite hangout is a commercial pilot taking a wee bit of a rest break. The other day she told me that for some reason, the right side of a Piper Navaho always receives the vast majority of the damage in a crash regardless of the angle or speed of impact. She highly recommended sitting portside if I'm ever in one. That's the first that I've ever heard of it, and neither one of us can think of a good explanation for it. Any of you aero experts have the answer? (She didn't specify any particular model year.)

 

[FredGarvin]

I'm not an airrframer. But I do know a couple of guys who probably know the answer (if there indeed is one). I'll get back to you after I do some homework. Personally, I'm thinking old wive's tale, but I will see if I can't dig anything up.

 

[Danger]

Thanks, Fred. I gave her the PF address, so she might even be following this herself.

 

[Cliff_J]

Wild guess: Engine rotation?

 

[Danger]

That was my first thought, Cliff, but they're counter-rotating. Wouldn't that cancel the effect?

 

[DM]

For the right side of the piper to be more susceptible to crashes, the airframe must have some sort of connection with the blue print of the aircraft.

A little research...

"Piper had to redesign the flight control systems to handle the increased loads on the airframe due to the higher speeds."

Reference

It seems the problem persists.

 

[DaveC426913]

Um, pilot preference?

 

[Danger]

While I muchly appreciate the link, DM, and found it informative, I don't actually see anything there that addresses this specific issue. The flight control system shouldn't have anything to do with crush/crumple/ouch characteristics.

Um, pilot preference?

 

[turbo]

Typically, these small commuter planes have doors/hatches on the left side. Perhaps these provide some additional stiffening to the airframe on the left...?

 

[FredGarvin]

Two of my 3 sources had no idea about this myth (I'm calling it a myth until proven). I have a third, but he has been sent out of town for a few days and won't be able to reply.

Really, it could be anything...

 

[Danger]

Thanks, all, for the responses. I'll continue to check in and see what else turns up.