Casualties unknown

Aircraft Overhauled with New Propeller Experiences Climb Failure (N7258D)

Edgewood, NM, US

On October 14, 1988, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N7258D) operated by Rigsby, David C. was involved in an aviation accident near Edgewood, NM. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

After an overhaul and installation of a new Hartzell propeller, the aircraft failed to climb at full power. The pilot headed for lower terrain but lost altitude and crashed during a turn to land. Density altitude was about 9000 feet.

Accident Details

The aircraft had recently undergone an overhaul and was equipped with a new Hartzell model 7636D-4 propeller, which replaced the previous propeller. The aircraft was serviced with a full fuel load prior to the flight.

Sequence of Events

According to the pilot's report, after takeoff, the aircraft did not climb as expected despite the use of full power. The pilot reported that he directed the aircraft toward lower terrain and circled, but eventually the loss of altitude became excessive. Subsequently, the aircraft crashed while the pilot was turning into the wind to land. The density altitude at the time of the accident was approximately 9000 feet.

Additional Information

No other information regarding the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, or location was provided in the source. The number of occupants and any injuries were not specified. The source did not state a probable cause for the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27041. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.