On November 14, 1988, a Piper PA-31-350 (registration N6292) operated by Jordan Paper Products, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Indianapolis, IN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During initial climb, the right engine began backfiring and running rough. The pilot aborted takeoff at about 25 feet, banked right to avoid obstacles, but the aircraft struck the ground right wing first and tumbled through a fence.
Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that immediately after rotation and during the initial climb, the right engine began to backfire and run rough. Despite attempts to smooth out the engine operation, the rough running continued. The pilot then elected to abort the takeoff, at which time the aircraft was approximately 25 feet above the ground. Observing obstacles ahead, the pilot chose to bank the aircraft to the right to obtain additional space. However, the aircraft contacted the ground right wing first, then tumbled sideways and slid through a fence before coming to a stop on an access road.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination and operational check of the engine failed to duplicate the power loss as described by the pilot. No pre-accident mechanical malfunction was verified, except for low compression (30 over 80 PSI) on the #1 and #5 cylinders of the right engine.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 14 Nov 1988 Piper PA-31-350 accident near Indianapolis, IN?
During initial climb, the right engine began backfiring and running rough. The pilot aborted takeoff at about 25 feet, banked right to avoid obstacles, but the aircraft struck the ground right wing first and tumbled through a fence.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Nov 1988 involved a Piper PA-31-350, registration N6292, operated by Jordan Paper Products, Inc., at Indianapolis, IN.
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