Casualties unknown

Aircraft Fails to Clear Fence During Takeoff from Muddy Field (N6994C)

Medicine Bow, WY, US

On May 8, 1982, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N6994C) operated by Gillis Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Medicine Bow, WY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from a muddy field at a density altitude of 7,253 feet, an aircraft failed to clear a boundary fence, struck it, and came to rest in a meadow after hitting a road embankment.

Incident Overview

An aircraft experienced a takeoff accident from a muddy field under conditions of elevated density altitude. The density altitude at the time was reported as 7,253 feet. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft was unable to climb sufficiently to clear a boundary fence at the edge of the field.

Sequence of Events

According to passenger statements, the stall warning sounded continuously from the moment of takeoff until the aircraft impacted the ground. The aircraft struck the boundary fence, then continued across an adjacent field. Subsequently, the tail skid made contact with a road embankment, and the aircraft came to rest in a meadow adjoining the area.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the aircraft after the accident revealed no evidence of engine malfunction. The investigation did not identify any mechanical issues that would have contributed to the failure to clear the obstacle. The conditions of the takeoff surface and the density altitude were noted in the factual report.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 May 1982 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Medicine Bow, WY?

During takeoff from a muddy field at a density altitude of 7,253 feet, an aircraft failed to clear a boundary fence, struck it, and came to rest in a meadow after hitting a road embankment.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 May 1982 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N6994C, operated by Gillis Aviation, at Medicine Bow, WY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03114. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.