On June 11, 1986, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2378D) operated by Flight Saftey, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Vero Beach, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot practicing a soft-field takeoff from Runway 18 lost directional control after the main gear hit a bump, striking trees. Winds were from 130° at 16 knots gusting 20. The pilot had been advised against solo operations due to rough turf.
Accident Narrative
A student pilot was engaged in a practice soft-field takeoff from Runway 18. Just prior to rotation, the main landing gear struck a bump in the airstrip, causing the aircraft to drift to the left. The leftward drift continued until the aircraft collided with trees adjacent to the runway.
Environmental Conditions
The surface winds reported near the time of the accident were from 130 degrees at 16 knots, with gusts reaching 20 knots.
Operational Context
The pilot had been previously informed by his certified flight instructor that student pilots were prohibited from conducting solo operations at that airport because of the rough turf runways.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 11 Jun 1986 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Vero Beach, FL?
A student pilot practicing a soft-field takeoff from Runway 18 lost directional control after the main gear hit a bump, striking trees. Winds were from 130° at 16 knots gusting 20. The pilot had been advised against solo operations due to rough turf.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Jun 1986 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N2378D, operated by Flight Saftey, Inc., at Vero Beach, FL.
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