Casualties unknown

1985-07-28: Piper PA-30 (N7AT) — Jarbridge, NV

Jarbridge, NV, US

On July 28, 1985, a Piper PA-30 (registration N7AT) was involved in an aviation accident near Jarbridge, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft following a correction for a wind gust, which may have involved an encounter with a down draft or other weather phenomenon. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft descended to the ground shortly after departure following a correction for a left wing rise caused by a wind gust. No mechanical failure was found.

What happened

Shortly after departure, the aircraft experienced an unexpected disturbance that raised the left wing. This event was attributed to a gust of wind acting on the airframe during the initial climb phase. In response to the asymmetric lift, the pilot initiated corrective inputs to restore level flight.

During this correction maneuver, the aircraft yawed to the right. To counteract the roll and maintain altitude, the pilot applied almost full aileron deflection. Despite these efforts, the aircraft was unable to sustain controlled flight and subsequently descended into the ground.

The investigation

Following the accident, a thorough inspection of the airframe and propulsion system was conducted to determine if mechanical failure contributed to the loss of control. The examination revealed no evidence of engine malfunction or control surface obstruction. All flight controls appeared functional prior to impact.

Findings

The physical evidence indicated that the aircraft did not suffer from any internal mechanical failures. Investigators considered atmospheric conditions as a primary factor, noting that the aircraft likely encountered a down draft or other localized weather phenomenon during the critical early phase of flight. The sequence of events suggests that the combination of the initial wind gust and subsequent corrective actions led to a loss of control authority.

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft following a correction for a wind gust, which may have involved an encounter with a down draft or other weather phenomenon.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37312. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.