Casualties unknown

Aircraft Unable to Climb, Settles Back to Terrain During Takeoff from Private Grass Strip (N7136B)

St. Clair, MO, US

On August 14, 1989, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N7136B) operated by Landing, Jerry D. was involved in an aviation accident near St. Clair, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INABILITY TO ESTABLISH A POSITIVE RATE OF CLIMB DUE TO THE MISJUDGED WEIGHT AND BALANCE CALCULATIONS. 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

During takeoff from a 2000-foot private grass strip, an aircraft converted to tailwheel configuration with oversized tundra tires failed to establish a positive climb and settled back to the terrain. No mechanical or fuel supply malfunctions were found.

Accident Overview

The accident occurred while the aircraft was attempting to take off from a private grass strip with an approximate length of 2,000 feet. During the takeoff attempt, the aircraft was unable to establish a positive climb and subsequently settled back to the terrain. The intended final destination of the flight was Fairbanks, Alaska, for a hunting trip. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was loaded with baggage, hunting gear, firearms, the pilot, and two adult passengers. No specific details regarding the aircraft's make, model, or registration were provided in the source material.

Aircraft Configuration

The aircraft had undergone a conversion to a tail wheel configuration. Additionally, it was equipped with large, oversized tires described as "tundra type". These modifications are relevant to the aircraft's performance during takeoff operations on unpaved surfaces.

Investigation Findings

A post-accident investigation was conducted, and it revealed no mechanical malfunctions or issues with the fuel supply. The investigation did not identify any specific causal factors, and the source did not provide 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/20001213X29212. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.