On May 30, 1983, a Piper PA28R200 (registration N41761) operated by C & M Aero Service was involved in an aviation accident near Decatur, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the final approach in gusty wind conditions and poor weather, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot attempted to land in gusty winds and rain after a weather briefing revealed widespread thunderstorms, resulting in a stall and steep nose-down impact.
What happened
Following an initial landing, the pilot sought a weather briefing due to deteriorating conditions. During this update, he was informed of a massive line of thunderstorms spanning 150 miles that covered his current location. Despite this warning, the pilot departed and attempted to land at an airport situated 15 miles away. The approach took place in gusty wind conditions accompanied by low ceilings and rain. During the final approach phase, the aircraft stalled and impacted the ground in a steep nose-down attitude.
Findings
The accident occurred during the landing phase of flight. Contributing factors included the pilot's decision to operate in severe weather despite being warned of a large thunderstorm complex. The immediate cause was the stall on final approach under gusty wind conditions with low visibility.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the final approach in gusty wind conditions and poor weather, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground.
What happened in the 30 May 1983 Piper PA28R200 accident near Decatur, TX?
A pilot attempted to land in gusty winds and rain after a weather briefing revealed widespread thunderstorms, resulting in a stall and steep nose-down impact.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 May 1983 involved a Piper PA28R200, registration N41761, operated by C & M Aero Service, at Decatur, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the final approach in gusty wind conditions and poor weather, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground.
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