On September 15, 1984, a Piper PA-28-236 (registration N8279L) operated by Mark N. Boss was involved in an aviation accident near Santa Paula, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from an obstacle during initial climb, which resulted in a collision with a telephone wire. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft departed Santa Paula Airport runway 22 and struck a telephone wire 2.6 statute miles from the end of the runway, resulting in an off-airport impact.
What happened
Following takeoff from runway 22 at Santa Paula Airport, the aircraft proceeded southwest along the path of the Santa Clara River. Witnesses observed the aircraft maintaining a level flight path at approximately 80 feet above ground level with normal engine power sounds immediately prior to contacting a telephone wire located 2.6 statute miles from the end of the runway.
The collision with the wire caused the in-flight separation of the outboard left wing panel. The aircraft then impacted the ground in a marshy section of the river bed, approximately 450 feet beyond the point of wire contact.
The investigation
A thorough examination of the wreckage and operational records was conducted to determine the sequence of events. Investigators found no evidence of pre-impact mechanical malfunction or failure of the aircraft systems that would have contributed to the accident.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from an obstacle during initial climb, which resulted in a collision with a telephone wire.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 15 Sept 1984 Piper PA-28-236 accident near Santa Paula, CA?
An aircraft departed Santa Paula Airport runway 22 and struck a telephone wire 2.6 statute miles from the end of the runway, resulting in an off-airport impact.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Sept 1984 involved a Piper PA-28-236, registration N8279L, operated by Mark N. Boss, at Santa Paula, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from an obstacle during initial climb, which resulted in a collision with a telephone wire.
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