On January 5, 1992, a Piper PA-32R-300 (registration N38781) operated by Gary Mead was involved in an aviation accident near Edgartown, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO ATTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED, WHICH RESULTED IN A STALL. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE CROSSWIND, THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE WIND AND FAILURE TO MAINTAIN PROPER ALIGNMENT WITH THE RUNWAY, AND HIGH OBSTRUCTIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff, rotation at 50-55 knots led to right drift and poor climb. After avoiding trees, the airplane stalled, struck a shed and fuel pump, shearing both wings. No anomalies found.
Accident Narrative
The pilot rotated the airplane for takeoff between 50 and 55 knots. Immediately after rotation, the pilot noticed a rightward drift and insufficient climb performance. Observing through the side window that the airplane was approaching trees, the pilot executed a left turn with back pressure on the yoke. The airplane gained approximately 30 feet in altitude before stalling. The aircraft then struck a shed, causing one wing to separate. It continued into a fuel pump, which resulted in the detachment of the other wing.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that the winds were from 320 degrees at 25 knots. The gross weight of the airplane at the time was 3,570 pounds.
Post-Accident Findings
An investigation following the accident determined that there were no anomalies with the airplane. The airplane was fully fueled.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 5 Jan 1992 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Edgartown, MA?
During takeoff, rotation at 50-55 knots led to right drift and poor climb. After avoiding trees, the airplane stalled, struck a shed and fuel pump, shearing both wings. No anomalies found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Jan 1992 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N38781, operated by Gary Mead, at Edgartown, MA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO ATTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED, WHICH RESULTED IN A STALL. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE CROSSWIND, THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE WIND AND FAILURE TO MAINTAIN PROPER ALIGNMENT WITH THE RUNWAY, AND HIGH OBSTRUCTIONS.
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