Casualties unknown

1988-06-14: Piper PA-38-112 (N2387T) — Vero Beach, FL

Vero Beach, FL, US

On June 14, 1988, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2387T) was involved in an aviation accident near Vero Beach, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A 25-year-old student pilot practicing takeoffs and landings lost directional control during a crosswind touchdown, flipping the aircraft inverted after departing the runway.

Incident Overview

A 25-year-old student pilot was practicing takeoffs and landings on Runway 11L in preparation for a private pilot flight test. Approximately 1.9 hours before the accident, the wind was from 090 degrees at 13 knots. At the time of the accident, the wind had increased to 18 knots with turbulence.

The student pilot had previously required extra instruction in crosswind landings. He stated that he was using rudder only to correct for drift and did not use aileron because he was afraid he would drag a wing.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft was observed flying an erratic final approach. During touchdown, the pilot lost directional control, causing the aircraft to depart the runway. The aircraft then flipped over to an inverted position.

Investigation Findings

The investigation noted the student pilot's lack of aileron input in crosswind conditions and the increasing wind and turbulence at the time of the accident. No formal probable cause was stated in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26014. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.