On July 8, 1987, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N8389Y) operated by Tim L.bobo was involved in an aviation accident near Gulf Shores, AL. 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.
The pilot aborted takeoff after noticing the airspeed indicator was inoperative. The aircraft could not stop, ran off the runway, and entered a ditch. Inspection revealed a mud dauber nest blocking the pitot head.
Incident Details
During the takeoff roll on a 3600-foot runway, the pilot observed that the airspeed indicator was inoperative and aborted the takeoff approximately halfway down the runway. The aircraft could not be stopped before it ran off the end of the runway and entered a ditch.
Findings
An examination by an A&P mechanic determined that the pitot head was obstructed by a mud dauber nest. The obstruction was not visible through the pitot opening. The mechanic noted that this type of problem was common at that airport. The aircraft had been flown several days prior to the accident without any reported issues. The pilot operating handbook recommended that a pitot cover be used whenever the aircraft was not in use.
What happened in the 8 Jul 1987 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Gulf Shores, AL?
The pilot aborted takeoff after noticing the airspeed indicator was inoperative. The aircraft could not stop, ran off the runway, and entered a ditch. Inspection revealed a mud dauber nest blocking the pitot head.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Jul 1987 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N8389Y, operated by Tim L.bobo, at Gulf Shores, AL.
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