Casualties unknown

Aircraft Contacts Trees During Initial Climb After Takeoff (N15131)

Athens, TX, US

On March 17, 1985, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N15131) was involved in an aviation accident near Athens, TX. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft made a takeoff from a 1,830-foot sod strip bordered by trees, achieved 60-63 mph, entered an uncontrolled descent, struck trees with the left wing, and collided with terrain.

Incident Overview

During an initial takeoff climb, an aircraft contacted trees and descended uncontrolled into the terrain. The takeoff was conducted on a 1,830-foot-long sod runway, the departure end of which was bordered by trees.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported using full throttle, achieving 2400–2450 rpm, but the aircraft only reached an airspeed of 60–63 mph. After becoming airborne, the aircraft would not maintain altitude, and an uncontrolled descent ensued.

Sequence of Events

The left wing of the aircraft contacted trees, after which the aircraft collided with the terrain. The pilot stated that the stall warning activated early in the takeoff, and he corrected the situation by lowering the nose.

Conditions

No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, location, number of occupants, injuries, damage, time of day, weather, or air traffic control involvement were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Mar 1985 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Athens, TX?

An aircraft made a takeoff from a 1,830-foot sod strip bordered by trees, achieved 60-63 mph, entered an uncontrolled descent, struck trees with the left wing, and collided with terrain.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Mar 1985 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N15131, at Athens, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35924. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.