Casualties unknown

Soft Field Takeoff Ends in Tree Strike After Loss of Airspeed (N4443T)

Alvin, TX, US

On October 1, 1987, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N4443T) was involved in an aviation accident near Alvin, TX. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a soft field takeoff with 10 degrees of flaps, a pilot failed to maintain airspeed after becoming airborne, causing the aircraft to drift left into trees. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was reported.

Takeoff Procedure

The pilot initiated a soft field type takeoff with 10 degrees of flaps. He reported starting the takeoff with the control wheel held full aft until the aircraft became airborne, then lowering the nose to remain in ground effect.

Loss of Control

However, the pilot failed to maintain adequate airspeed and the aircraft drifted to the left of the runway, toward trees. He stated that power was set to full, but the airspeed was not sufficient to maintain controlled flight.

Impact

Subsequently, the aircraft crashed in a controlled manner into the trees. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was reported.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Oct 1987 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Alvin, TX?

During a soft field takeoff with 10 degrees of flaps, a pilot failed to maintain airspeed after becoming airborne, causing the aircraft to drift left into trees. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Oct 1987 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N4443T, at Alvin, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32099. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.