On October 20, 1990, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N4167J) operated by Dennis F. Harrup, JR was involved in an aviation accident near Amelia, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in an insufficient climb performance. Contributing to the accident was the short runway length and uphill gradient. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot attempted takeoff on a short, uphill runway but the aircraft failed to gain altitude, settling back down and striking trees beyond the runway end.
What happened
The pilot attempted to take off from an 1800-foot-long runway that had an uphill gradient. Witnesses observed the aircraft departing downwind. According to the pilot, the aircraft lifted off but shortly after began to settle back down beyond the end of the runway. The aircraft descended and struck trees.
The investigation
Post-crash examination of the aircraft did not disclose evidence of mechanical malfunction. The pilot reported that the engine ran the entire time.
Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in an insufficient climb performance. Contributing to the accident was the short runway length and uphill gradient.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in an insufficient climb performance. Contributing to the accident was the short runway length and uphill gradient.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Oct 1990 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Amelia, VA?
The pilot attempted takeoff on a short, uphill runway but the aircraft failed to gain altitude, settling back down and striking trees beyond the runway end.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Oct 1990 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N4167J, operated by Dennis F. Harrup, JR, at Amelia, VA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in an insufficient climb performance. Contributing to the accident was the short runway length and uphill gradient.
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