What happened
Earlier in the day, four occupants of N4382P were reported to the Zwolle, Louisiana Sheriff's Department for being intoxicated at a nearby lounge. After landing at Leesville Airport, the aircraft taxied off the asphalt surface, which resulted in damage that bent both ends of the propeller blades. The occupants attempted to straighten the blades using a pipe wrench before departing the airfield to visit a nightclub.
Between 2230 and 2300 hours, the group returned to Leesville Airport for takeoff. Shortly after leaving the ground, the aircraft impacted trees in a near-vertical, nose-down attitude. The pilot's blood alcohol level was measured at 0.151%, indicating significant impairment.
Findings
The investigation highlighted several critical factors contributing to the accident. The occupants had consumed alcohol prior to flight, with the pilot exhibiting a blood alcohol concentration well above the legal limit. Additionally, the propeller blades were bent due to the earlier ground incident, and the repair attempt using a pipe wrench was likely insufficient for proper maintenance standards. These conditions combined to create an unsafe flight environment.
Safety message
Pilots must adhere to strict regulations regarding alcohol consumption before flying. Operating an aircraft while impaired poses severe risks to safety. Furthermore, any damage to critical components like propellers requires professional inspection and repair rather than makeshift fixes.