Aircraft ground impact during low-level turn

Casualties unknown • Conrad, MT, US

A pilot experienced a loss of control during a low-level turnaround, resulting in the aircraft's wing and landing gear striking the ground.

What happened

The pilot was performing a low-level left turnaround to begin a swath run when the aircraft began to lose airspeed. During the highest part of the turn, the aircraft was in a steep left bank. As the aircraft approached the ground, the pilot was unable to raise the left wing sufficiently.

As a result, the left wing and the main landing gear made contact with the ground. The aircraft then slid sideways across the terrain before coming to a complete stop. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical issues with the aircraft prior to the event. He noted that he had been turning into a wind of 6 to 8 knots but believed the wind may have ceased during the execution of the turn, contributing to the loss of airspeed.

No injuries were reported in the accident.

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of airspeed during a steep bank, potentially exacerbated by a reduction in headwind, which prevented the recovery of the left wing before ground contact occurred.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1988-06-27 Piper PA-25-235 accident near Conrad, MT?

A pilot experienced a loss of control during a low-level turnaround, resulting in the aircraft's wing and landing gear striking the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1988-06-27 involved a Piper PA-25-235, registration N9856P, operated by Mellott, Thomas H., at Conrad, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's loss of airspeed during a steep bank, potentially exacerbated by a reduction in headwind, which prevented the recovery of the left wing before ground contact occurred.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25937. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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