On July 19, 1985, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N5279S) was involved in an aviation accident near Big Falls, MN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot diverted to Big Falls Airport after his destination was below VFR minimums. After checking the sod runway and setting a go/no-go point, he took off using soft field techniques but rotated early. At the departure end, climb performance deteriorated and the aircraft settled into trees.
Diverted to Alternate Airport
A pilot diverted to Big Falls Airport after determining that his original destination was below visual flight rules (VFR) minimums. Upon arrival, he inspected the sod runway for firmness and established a designated go/no-go point for departure.
Takeoff and Incident
Using soft field takeoff techniques, the pilot began his departure. However, he rotated the aircraft well in advance of the designated go/no-go point. According to the pilot, at the departure end of the runway, climb performance deteriorated to the point where the aircraft settled into trees located to the west of the airfield. The pilot attributed the loss of climb performance to a wind shift or wind shear. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was carrying two passengers and 35 gallons of fuel.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 19 Jul 1985 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Big Falls, MN?
A pilot diverted to Big Falls Airport after his destination was below VFR minimums. After checking the sod runway and setting a go/no-go point, he took off using soft field techniques but rotated early. At the departure end, climb performance deteriorated and the aircraft settled into trees.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Jul 1985 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N5279S, at Big Falls, MN.
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