On June 5, 1983, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N8787W) was involved in an aviation accident near Hamilton, MT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff, a pilot flying his own aircraft encountered a left roll at liftoff. Despite adding full power and applying aileron, the aircraft struck a powerline, flew through multiple lines and a fence, then stopped on its belly.
Event Description
According to the pilot, the ground roll during takeoff was normal. However, at liftoff the aircraft began a roll to the left. The pilot reported that he had started the takeoff with less than full power but added full power as the turn began. He attempted to correct the roll with aileron, but the control input had no effect. The aircraft was now heading toward several hangars. The pilot reduced power and tried to maneuver between the hangars. The aircraft cleared the top of one hangar, breaking a powerline. It then flew through power and phone lines and went through a fence before coming to a stop on its belly.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft belonged to the pilot. It had been flown less than three hours in the nine months preceding the accident. The pilot's last biennial flight review was dated July 30, 1974.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 5 Jun 1983 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Hamilton, MT?
During takeoff, a pilot flying his own aircraft encountered a left roll at liftoff. Despite adding full power and applying aileron, the aircraft struck a powerline, flew through multiple lines and a fence, then stopped on its belly.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Jun 1983 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N8787W, at Hamilton, MT.
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