On March 23, 1982, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2463F) operated by Kitty Hawk Flight School was involved in an aviation accident near Near Opalocka, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of control during a forced landing practice maneuver, which resulted in the aircraft bouncing and striking a tree. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a forced landing exercise on a gravel levee, the aircraft bounced hard to the left before striking a tree, resulting in damage to the left wing.
What happened
The pilot was conducting practice maneuvers for forced landings in a soft field environment. The passenger noted that the designated landing area was situated on a levee bordered by water, trees, and vegetation. During the approach, the aircraft bounced hard and veered to the left off the gravel surface before the pilot attempted to add power. As a result of this maneuver, the left wing of the aircraft collided with a tree.
The investigation
The examination focused on the immediate circumstances of the impact during the practice landing attempt. The physical evidence confirmed that the aircraft struck a tree with its left wing after bouncing off the gravel surface.
Probable cause
The pilot's loss of control during a forced landing practice maneuver, which resulted in the aircraft bouncing and striking a tree.
What happened in the 23 Mar 1982 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Near Opalocka, FL?
During a forced landing exercise on a gravel levee, the aircraft bounced hard to the left before striking a tree, resulting in damage to the left wing.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Mar 1982 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N2463F, operated by Kitty Hawk Flight School, at Near Opalocka, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's loss of control during a forced landing practice maneuver, which resulted in the aircraft bouncing and striking a tree.
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