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Casualties unknown

Stall after takeoff due to engine cowling concern (N8021W)

Hazard, KY, US

On June 16, 1987, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N8021W) was involved in an aviation accident near Hazard, KY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a post-takeoff maneuver, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot observed the upper engine cowling lifting shortly after takeoff and attempted to return to the airport, resulting in a stall and impact with terrain adjacent to the runway.

What happened

Shortly after takeoff, the pilot noticed that the rear section of the upper engine cowling had lifted upward. This visual anomaly caused immediate concern regarding the potential for the cowling to detach completely during flight operations.

In response to this observation, the pilot initiated maneuvers to return the aircraft to the departure airport for a landing. However, while attempting to configure the aircraft for the return flight, the airplane entered a stall condition. The aircraft subsequently impacted terrain located adjacent to the runway.

The investigation

A preflight examination of the aircraft revealed that the pilot had removed and replaced the engine cowling prior to the flight. This maintenance activity is noted as part of the factual record surrounding the event.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a post-takeoff maneuver, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with terrain. Contributing factors: The pilot's concern over the lifted engine cowling and the preflight removal and replacement of the cowling.

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Piper PA-28 Cherokee accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jun 1987 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Hazard, KY?

A pilot observed the upper engine cowling lifting shortly after takeoff and attempted to return to the airport, resulting in a stall and impact with terrain adjacent to the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jun 1987 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N8021W, at Hazard, KY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a post-takeoff maneuver, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with terrain. Contributing factors: The pilot's concern over the lifted engine cowling and the preflight removal and replacement of the cowling.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31098. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.