Casualties unknown

Left Wing Lift During Takeoff at Dirt Strip Near Prescott (N9660W)

Chino Valley, AZ, US

On October 15, 1985, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N9660W) operated by Russell K. Moreton was involved in an aviation accident near Chino Valley, AZ. 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

A flight departing Prescott experienced a left wing lift during takeoff from a dirt strip, scraping fence posts. Winds were from 110 degrees at 8 knots gusting to 17 knots.

Flight Details

The flight departed Prescott for a local flight. According to the pilot, the runways at Prescott switched several times between runway 11 and runway 03 due to the wind conditions. After departing Prescott, the flight proceeded to a dirt strip located north of the city, where a normal landing was made.

Weather

The official surface observation at Prescott reported winds from 110 degrees at 8 knots, with gusts to 17 knots.

Incident

During the subsequent takeoff from the dirt strip, the pilot stated that the left wing suddenly lifted. The aircraft was unable to gain altitude and scraped the tops of metal fence posts off the departure end of the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Oct 1985 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Chino Valley, AZ?

A flight departing Prescott experienced a left wing lift during takeoff from a dirt strip, scraping fence posts. Winds were from 110 degrees at 8 knots gusting to 17 knots.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Oct 1985 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N9660W, operated by Russell K. Moreton, at Chino Valley, AZ.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38062. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.