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Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Loss of Lift After Takeoff in Warm, Windy Conditions (N6070Z)

Stapleton, NE, US

On August 23, 1991, a Piper PA-25-150 (registration N6070Z) operated by Dennis J. And Trudy Brosius was involved in an aviation accident near Stapleton, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S DISREGARD FOR AIRCRAFT PERFORMANCE DATA. RELATED FACTORS ARE THE PILOT'S POOR WEATHER EVALUATION, AND DELAYED REMEDIAL ACTION. 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

A pilot reported losing lift after takeoff, causing the aircraft to descend into the ground. The aircraft was within weight and balance limits, with density altitude at 5,500 feet and thunderstorms in the area. No engine power loss was noted.

Accident Details

The pilot stated that the preflight inspection, engine run up, and takeoff roll were normal. After lifting off, the aircraft developed a sink rate and descended into the ground. The aircraft was operating within its weight and balance limitations.

Pilot Report

According to the pilot, he "lost lift and was just along for the ride." He noted that a similar situation had occurred to him before in warm weather. The pilot also indicated that there was no loss of engine power during the event.

Environmental Conditions

The density altitude was computed to be 5,500 feet. Thunderstorms and shifting winds were reported in the area at the time of the accident.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17792. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.