On July 30, 1982, a Piper PA-38 (registration N25814) operated by Bullfrog, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near New Haven, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to land on a gravel road in deteriorating weather conditions, which resulted in the left wing striking tall grass and the aircraft swerving into a ditch. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a pipeline patrol flight, decreasing visibility from ground fog prompted the pilot to land on a gravel road. The left wing struck tall grass during the landing roll, causing the aircraft to swerve into a ditch.
What happened
The pilot was conducting a routine pipeline patrol when he obtained a weather briefing prior to departure. Approximately 30 minutes into the flight, visibility began to decrease due to the development of ground fog. In response to the deteriorating conditions, the pilot elected to land on a gravel road.
During the landing roll, the left wing struck tall grass along the edge of the road. This contact caused the aircraft to swerve off the paved surface and into a ditch.
The investigation
The source text does not provide specific details regarding mechanical examination or post-accident inspection findings beyond the immediate physical interaction with the terrain.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to land on a gravel road in deteriorating weather conditions, which resulted in the left wing striking tall grass and the aircraft swerving into a ditch.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 30 Jul 1982 Piper PA-38 accident near New Haven, IL?
During a pipeline patrol flight, decreasing visibility from ground fog prompted the pilot to land on a gravel road. The left wing struck tall grass during the landing roll, causing the aircraft to swerve into a ditch.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Jul 1982 involved a Piper PA-38, registration N25814, operated by Bullfrog, Inc., at New Haven, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to land on a gravel road in deteriorating weather conditions, which resulted in the left wing striking tall grass and the aircraft swerving into a ditch.
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