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Aircraft Crashes After Stall During Soft Field Takeoff Practice (N2444N)

Middleton, WI, US

On July 26, 1986, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2444N) was involved in an aviation accident near Middleton, WI. 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 CFI and student crashed during a soft field takeoff after the aircraft stopped accelerating, received stall warnings, and struck uneven terrain. No defects were found in the aircraft. The CFI had 320 hours of total flying time.

Accident Overview

A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot were practicing touch-and-go landings. After completing a full stop landing, they initiated a soft field takeoff. During the takeoff, the CFI reported that acceleration seemed slower than usual. Following lift-off, the aircraft appeared to cease accelerating entirely. The stall warning system activated with several beeps, and the aircraft subsequently struck uneven terrain—specifically a road—and crashed.

Prior Events and Inspection

The CFI stated that they had been practicing soft field takeoffs in the same aircraft immediately before this lesson. After the accident, an inspection of the aircraft revealed no defects or malfunctions.

Pilot Experience

The CFI had a total of 320 hours of flying experience at the time of the accident.

Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Jul 1986 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Middleton, WI?

A CFI and student crashed during a soft field takeoff after the aircraft stopped accelerating, received stall warnings, and struck uneven terrain. No defects were found in the aircraft. The CFI had 320 hours of total flying time.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Jul 1986 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N2444N, at Middleton, WI.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34128. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.