Aircraft Stall and Collision During Takeoff

Casualties unknown • Edgartown, MA, US

An aircraft experienced a stall and subsequent collision with a shed and fuel pump during the takeoff phase of flight.

What happened

During takeoff, the pilot rotated the aircraft at a speed between 50 and 55 knots. Upon rotation, the pilot observed that the airplane was drifting to the right and failing to climb effectively. After noticing trees in the flight path through the side window, the pilot executed a left turn and pulled back on the yoke.

As a result of these maneuvers, the aircraft climbed approximately 30 feet before entering a stall. During the descent following the stall, the aircraft collided with a shed, which caused one wing to shear off. The aircraft then struck a fuel pump, resulting in the loss of the other wing.

At the time of the accident, the winds were reported as being from 320 degrees at 25 knots, and the gross weight of the aircraft was 3,570 lbs.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered a stall during takeoff following an attempt to avoid trees, leading to a collision with ground structures.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-01-05 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Edgartown, MA?

An aircraft experienced a stall and subsequent collision with a shed and fuel pump during the takeoff phase of flight.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-01-05 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N38781, operated by Gary Mead, at Edgartown, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered a stall during takeoff following an attempt to avoid trees, leading to a collision with ground structures.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13948. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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