On October 28, 1990, a Piper PA-28-180D (registration N264W) operated by DE Groot, Lawrence C. was involved in an aviation accident near Crivitz, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT, AND HIS FAILURE TO ABORT THE TAKEOFF (WHILE THERE WAS SUFFICIENT RUNWAY REMAINING). This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot attempted takeoff from an uphill 1584-foot sod airstrip. The airplane accelerated to 60-65 mph but failed to gain sufficient airspeed to clear trees, striking trees in a ravine.
Accident Overview
A pilot attempted to take off from an uphill sod airstrip that was 1,584 feet in length. The pilot reported that the airplane accelerated to an indicated airspeed of 60-65 miles per hour during the takeoff roll. However, the airplane did not gain sufficient airspeed to clear the trees at the end of the airstrip. It subsequently struck trees in a ravine located near the end of the airstrip.
Investigation Findings
An investigation conducted at the site determined that the airplane did not appear to become airborne until it had gone off the end of the airstrip. No mechanical difficulties with the airplane were reported. The wind was reported to be calm at the time of the takeoff attempt.
Airstrip Information
The airstrip was uphill and constructed of sod. Its length was 1,584 feet.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 28 Oct 1990 Piper PA-28-180D accident near Crivitz, WI?
A pilot attempted takeoff from an uphill 1584-foot sod airstrip. The airplane accelerated to 60-65 mph but failed to gain sufficient airspeed to clear trees, striking trees in a ravine.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 28 Oct 1990 involved a Piper PA-28-180D, registration N264W, operated by DE Groot, Lawrence C., at Crivitz, WI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT, AND HIS FAILURE TO ABORT THE TAKEOFF (WHILE THERE WAS SUFFICIENT RUNWAY REMAINING).
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