On November 4, 1987, a Piper PA-32-260 (registration N3666W) operated by C. F. Brown was involved in an aviation accident near Fulton, TX. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft departed in low ceiling and fog, entered a right climbing turn, reappeared at low altitude, and impacted the water. Investigation found an inoperative engine-driven vacuum pump with a sheared drive shaft.
Departure and Accident
An aircraft took off in conditions of low ceiling and visibility, carrying a student pilot and a passenger. Witnesses at the airport estimated the ceiling as 150 to 300 feet overcast with visibility of one-eighth to one-quarter mile in fog. After lifting off, the aircraft entered the fog while executing a right climbing turn. It then reappeared over the runway heading in the opposite direction at a very low altitude. Witnesses on the beach, approximately half a mile from the airport, reported that the weather was 'poor and foggy.' They observed the aircraft impact the water in a right bank and disappear.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the aircraft revealed that the engine-driven vacuum pump was inoperative at the time of takeoff. The pump had a sheared drive shaft that exhibited considerable wear. Additionally, the pump vanes were excessively worn, and one vane was found jammed between the rotor and the case. A detailed examination indicated that the pump had been inoperative for some time prior to the accident.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 4 Nov 1987 Piper PA-32-260 accident near Fulton, TX?
An aircraft departed in low ceiling and fog, entered a right climbing turn, reappeared at low altitude, and impacted the water. Investigation found an inoperative engine-driven vacuum pump with a sheared drive shaft.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Nov 1987 involved a Piper PA-32-260, registration N3666W, operated by C. F. Brown, at Fulton, TX.
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