On July 3, 1989, a Piper PA-12 (registration N3353M) operated by North Texas Flyers Association was involved in an aviation accident near Sanger, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED, WHICH RESULTED IN AN INADVERTENT STALL AT LOW ALTITUDE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Witnesses observed an aircraft perform a high-performance takeoff with an initial deck angle of 25 degrees, then the aircraft entered a left bank at 300 feet and crashed. No pre-impact failure was found.
Takeoff and Maneuvers
Witnesses described the aircraft's takeoff as high performance. The initial deck angle was approximately 25 degrees, which shallowed to about 10 degrees as the aircraft climbed through 200 feet above ground level (AGL). The aircraft showed no appreciable acceleration during the climb. At approximately 300 feet AGL, the aircraft entered a left bank, as if to turn crosswind. While turning, the aircraft entered a steep descent and subsequently crashed.
Weather Conditions
The wind was reported from the northeast at about 10 to 15 knots.
Pilot Experience
The pilot had logged approximately 7 hours in this make and model of aircraft.
Investigation Findings
No evidence of pre-impact failure of the aircraft or its systems was found during the investigation.