Casualties unknown

Aircraft Accident During Takeoff from Runway 24 in Frankfort, Kentucky (N5661F)

Frankfort, KY, US

On May 21, 1990, a Piper PA-32R-300 (registration N5661F) operated by Burgess & Niple was involved in an aviation accident near Frankfort, KY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO OPERATE THE AIRCRAFT WITHIN THE CENTER OF GRAVITY LIMITATIONS OF THE AIRCRAFT. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft with a pilot and five passengers attempted departure from Runway 24. Witnesses observed the tail dragging and sparks, then a steep nose-up attitude, followed by a left turn, roll, and crash. Weight and balance showed aft CG limit exceeded.

Overview

An airline transport pilot and five passengers were attempting to depart from Runway 24 at Frankfort, Kentucky. According to witnesses, during the takeoff roll, the tail appeared to be dragging along the runway surface, and sparks were observed coming from the tail of the aircraft. After becoming airborne, the aircraft featured a nose-up pitch attitude of approximately 30 degrees, appearing to hang on the propeller. The engine was reported to be running smoothly and at a high RPM.

Sequence of Events

As the aircraft neared the end of the runway, it initiated a left turn. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft rolled inverted and subsequently crashed. No information is provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, date, time of day, weather conditions, ATC involvement, or any injuries or fatalities.

Weight and Balance

A post-accident weight and balance calculation indicated that the aircraft's center of gravity exceeded the aft center of gravity limit. The source does not explicitly state this as the cause of the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 May 1990 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Frankfort, KY?

An aircraft with a pilot and five passengers attempted departure from Runway 24. Witnesses observed the tail dragging and sparks, then a steep nose-up attitude, followed by a left turn, roll, and crash. Weight and balance showed aft CG limit exceeded.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 May 1990 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N5661F, operated by Burgess & Niple, at Frankfort, KY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO OPERATE THE AIRCRAFT WITHIN THE CENTER OF GRAVITY LIMITATIONS OF THE AIRCRAFT.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23061. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.