On February 15, 1984, a Piper J3C-65S (registration N88327) was involved in an aviation accident near Haines, AK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
According to a witness, an aircraft performing an intersection takeoff climbed almost vertically then winged over left and dove into the ground near the runway. Investigation found no pre-impact failures or pilot impairment.
Incident Overview
A witness reported that an aircraft made an intersection takeoff and immediately began an almost vertical climb. Upon reaching approximately 300 feet above ground level, the aircraft banked sharply to the left and descended into the ground about 100 feet from the runway centerline and near the upwind end.
Post-Accident Findings
Investigators examined the wreckage and noted that the horizontal stabilizer trim was found in a slightly nose-up position. No evidence of any failure or malfunction of the aircraft was discovered during the investigation. A gross external autopsy of the pilot revealed no indication of pre-impact impairment that would have affected his ability to operate the aircraft.
