On September 6, 1982, a Piper PA32-301 (registration N8200M) operated by Pioneer Aviation Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Raton, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a downwind takeoff, which resulted in a stall and subsequent loss of control. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot executing a required downwind takeoff on Runway 17 experienced an immediate stall after liftoff due to crosswind conditions, leading to a hard landing and collapsed landing gear.
What happened
The incident occurred during the takeoff phase of flight. The pilot reported that local airport regulations necessitated a downwind departure on Runway 17. At the time of the event, wind conditions were from 350 degrees at 10 knots.
Shortly after liftoff, the aircraft entered a stall condition. To recover, the pilot applied forward elevator pressure to break the stall. The aircraft subsequently settled back toward the ground. Upon impact with soft dirt and a ditch, the landing gear collapsed.
The investigation
The primary mechanical outcome of the event was the collapse of the landing gear system. This damage resulted from the aircraft settling onto the ground at an altitude that allowed for insufficient energy absorption by the struts.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a downwind takeoff, which resulted in a stall and subsequent loss of control.
What happened in the 6 Sept 1982 Piper PA32-301 accident near Raton, NM?
A pilot executing a required downwind takeoff on Runway 17 experienced an immediate stall after liftoff due to crosswind conditions, leading to a hard landing and collapsed landing gear.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Sept 1982 involved a Piper PA32-301, registration N8200M, operated by Pioneer Aviation Inc, at Raton, NM.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a downwind takeoff, which resulted in a stall and subsequent loss of control.
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