On May 29, 1988, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N98088) operated by Tweeddale, Thomas A. was involved in an aviation accident near Denton, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flightcrew had not correctly assessed the location of the trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a simulated engine-out emergency in a training flight, an aircraft struck powerlines while attempting to reach an emergency field. The instructor directed the student toward a gap in trees, but the flightcrew misjudged the tree locations, leading to the collision.
Incident Details
A flight instructor was conducting a simulated engine-out emergency for a dual student during a training flight. The student was making an approach to an emergency field that had a line of trees on the approach end.
Sequence of Events
As the approach progressed, the instructor became aware that the aircraft might not reach the intended field. He directed the student to fly toward a gap in the trees to obtain more clearance. Just before initiating a go-around, the aircraft settled and collided with powerlines located in that gap.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined that the flightcrew had not correctly assessed the location of the trees, which led to the collision with powerlines.
What happened in the 29 May 1988 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Denton, TX?
During a simulated engine-out emergency in a training flight, an aircraft struck powerlines while attempting to reach an emergency field. The instructor directed the student toward a gap in trees, but the flightcrew misjudged the tree locations, leading to the collision.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 May 1988 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N98088, operated by Tweeddale, Thomas A., at Denton, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The flightcrew had not correctly assessed the location of the trees.
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