Casualties unknown

Tree Strike During Takeoff Leads to Wing Separation and Structural Failure (N8660W)

Sherman, TX, US

On November 23, 1990, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N8660W) operated by Cody Aero Sales was involved in an aviation accident near Sherman, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A PILOT INDUCED INADVERTENT STALL. 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

A private pilot attempting takeoff from a 1700-foot grass strip stalled after reaching 35 feet AGL; the right wing struck a tree, followed by left wing severing and complete tail section loss.

Scenario

A private pilot conducted a takeoff from a 1700-foot grass airstrip surrounded by medium-sized scrub oak trees. The pilot reported climbing to about 35 feet above ground level (AGL) and then pulling the nose up in an attempt to clear the trees.

Stall and Impact

As the nose was raised, the stall warning horn activated. Subsequently, the right wing struck a tree. The airplane rebounded across a road to the left, where the left wing struck another oak tree and was severed.

Final Position

After the left wing was separated, the airplane came to rest in a field with the remaining left wing stub contacting the ground. During the event, the nose gear collapsed and the entire tail section was torn off.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that the stall warning horn sounded after the nose was pulled up. No further details regarding pilot actions or environmental conditions were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Nov 1990 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Sherman, TX?

A private pilot attempting takeoff from a 1700-foot grass strip stalled after reaching 35 feet AGL; the right wing struck a tree, followed by left wing severing and complete tail section loss.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Nov 1990 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N8660W, operated by Cody Aero Sales, at Sherman, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A PILOT INDUCED INADVERTENT STALL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24606. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.