Casualties unknown

1985-08-11: Piper PA-60-600 (N3643R) — Denver, CO

Denver, CO, US

On August 11, 1985, a Piper PA-60-600 (registration N3643R) was involved in an aviation accident near Denver, CO. 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

The pilot of a Piper Aerostar waited 90 seconds after a B-727 departure on Runway 8R due to possible wake turbulence. During climbout at 600 feet, the aircraft experienced an uncommanded left roll. The pilot regained control just before ground impact. Wind was 170° at 20 knots gusting to 28 knots; demonstrated crosswind component is 15 knots. The aircraft lacks a stall warning device.

Incident Details

The pilot-in-command of a Piper Aerostar, registration N3643R, reported that he waited approximately 90 seconds after a Boeing 727 departed on Runway 8R due to the possibility of wake turbulence. He subsequently executed a short-field takeoff procedure in an attempt to climb above the flight path of the preceding B-727.

During climbout at about 600 feet above ground level, the aircraft began an uncommanded roll to the left. The pilot stated that he was able to regain roll control just prior to ground impact.

Environmental Conditions

At the time of the incident, the wind at Stapleton Airport was recorded as 170 degrees at 20 knots with gusts to 28 knots. According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) for the Piper Aerostar, the demonstrated crosswind component is 15 knots.

Aircraft Information

The Piper Aerostar is certificated without a stall warning device. No further information regarding the aircraft's configuration or maintenance history was provided in the source.

Pilot Actions

The pilot indicated that his decision to wait for wake turbulence dissipation and to use a short-field takeoff procedure was aimed at minimizing potential wake turbulence effects. He did not specify any control inputs or system malfunctions during the uncommanded roll event.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37436. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.