On July 25, 1982, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N8741D) operated by Jeff Wadley was involved in an aviation accident near Tieton, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance while climbing over rising terrain after takeoff, which may have been exacerbated by high density altitude conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot attempted a left turn after takeoff but was unable to clear trees while climbing over rising terrain. A density altitude of approximately 4300 feet was noted at the time of the accident.
What happened
Following the departure, the pilot initiated a left turn. However, the aircraft failed to clear the tree line while attempting to climb over rising terrain. A witness who observed the departure noted that standard procedure for most aircraft in this area involves continuing to climb over a nearby lake to gain additional altitude before executing a turn.
Findings
The accident occurred under conditions where the density altitude was approximately 4300 feet. This factor likely contributed to the reduced performance capabilities of the aircraft during the critical climb phase after takeoff.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance while climbing over rising terrain after takeoff, which may have been exacerbated by high density altitude conditions.
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