On July 4, 1987, a Piper PA-28RT-201T (registration N8274U) operated by Curtis B. Cooper was involved in an aviation accident near Galveston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to deviate left to avoid birds, which resulted in the landing gear colliding with a hidden concrete obstruction on an abandoned airstrip. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot attempting takeoff from an abandoned airstrip struck hidden concrete while avoiding birds, causing the left main and nose landing gear to collapse.
What happened
The pilot landed on an abandoned airstrip and began the process of taking off again. During the takeoff roll, the pilot observed birds on the runway surface. To avoid a potential bird strike, the pilot steered the aircraft to the left.
While maneuvering to the left, the landing gear struck a chunk of raised concrete. This obstruction was concealed by undergrowth, making it difficult to see. The impact caused both the left main landing gear and the nose gear to collapse.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the condition of the airstrip and the sequence of events leading to the damage. It was determined that the airstrip was abandoned and not maintained for regular operations. The presence of undergrowth contributed to the concealment of the concrete obstruction.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to deviate left to avoid birds, which resulted in the landing gear colliding with a hidden concrete obstruction on an abandoned airstrip.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 4 Jul 1987 Piper PA-28RT-201T accident near Galveston, TX?
A pilot attempting takeoff from an abandoned airstrip struck hidden concrete while avoiding birds, causing the left main and nose landing gear to collapse.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Jul 1987 involved a Piper PA-28RT-201T, registration N8274U, operated by Curtis B. Cooper, at Galveston, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to deviate left to avoid birds, which resulted in the landing gear colliding with a hidden concrete obstruction on an abandoned airstrip.
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