Casualties unknown

Aircraft Stalls into Fence After Takeoff in Frost Conditions (N8272W)

Milbank, SD, US

On April 14, 1989, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N8272W) operated by Spiering, Eugene was involved in an aviation accident near Milbank, SD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE BY THE PILOT TO ASSURE ADEQUATE REMOVAL OF FROST FROM THE AIRCRAFT WHICH RESULTED IN A STALL/MUSH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported the aircraft would not climb above ground effect after lift-off, cleared low trees, then stalled into a fence. Frost was wiped from the aircraft before flight, and no mechanical failures were found.

Flight Details

The pilot reported that the aircraft functioned normally during the takeoff roll. However, after lift-off, the aircraft would not climb above ground effect. The pilot stated that the aircraft just cleared low trees approximately 300 to 400 feet from the end of the runway, after which it stalled and struck a fence.

Preflight Conditions

Before the flight, the temperature was slightly below freezing and there was frost on the aircraft. A mechanic stated that the frost was wiped off the wings and tail before the flight.

Terrain and Obstacles

Beyond the departure end of the runway, the terrain was not suitable for an aborted takeoff. The pilot reported that the fence "saved the day" because there were significant obstructions beyond the fence.

Post-Accident Investigation

No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found during the investigation.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Apr 1989 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Milbank, SD?

A pilot reported the aircraft would not climb above ground effect after lift-off, cleared low trees, then stalled into a fence. Frost was wiped from the aircraft before flight, and no mechanical failures were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Apr 1989 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N8272W, operated by Spiering, Eugene, at Milbank, SD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FAILURE BY THE PILOT TO ASSURE ADEQUATE REMOVAL OF FROST FROM THE AIRCRAFT WHICH RESULTED IN A STALL/MUSH.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28082. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.