On April 28, 1985, a Piper PA-14 (registration N5122H) was involved in an aviation accident near Bliss, ID. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After a third touch-and-go, witnesses observed the aircraft climb steeply at slow airspeed, perform a wingover-like maneuver, and crash in a crosswind turn. The passenger reported a steep left turn and rapid descent. Flaps were retracted. The pilot held a student certificate despite 10 years of flying.
Accident Sequence
Witnesses observed the aircraft climb out at a steep angle and slow airspeed after completing its third touch-and-go landing. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft executed a wingover-like maneuver before crashing during a crosswind turn. A passenger reported that the pilot had initiated a steep left turn, after which the aircraft began a smooth, rapid descent.
Aircraft Configuration
Following the accident, the flaps were found in the retracted position.
Pilot Information
The pilot reported having flown for the previous 10 years but possessed only a student pilot certificate. He also noted unfamiliarity with the cockpit ergonomics of the PA-14 compared to the PA-18, which he had been flying previously.