On March 5, 1992, a Piper PA-28R-201T (registration N3768M) operated by James A. Chalfin was involved in an aviation accident near Brewer, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S DECISION TO LAND ON AN ICY RUNWAY AND THEN ATTEMPT TO TAKE OFF. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT'S DECISION TO COMPLETELY RAISE THE FLAPS AFTER THE BALKED LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot on a personal cross-country flight diverted to a small grass field. After aborting the landing due to ice patches, the airplane struck a tree, fell, and slid into a garage and parked car.
Incident
A pilot flying a personal cross-country flight experienced an accident after diverting to a small grass landing field. The sequence of events began as the pilot neared the intended destination.
Sequence of Events
Approach control instructed the pilot to delay the VFR approach due to landing traffic ahead. While circling, the pilot spotted a small grass landing field. He requested and received clearance to land there instead.
Upon touchdown, the pilot realized there were ice patches on the runway and elected to go around. He raised the flaps to the full up position and applied take-off power. Shortly past the departure end of the runway, the airplane struck a tree and fell to the ground. After sliding along the ground, the airplane struck a garage and a parked car.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 5 Mar 1992 Piper PA-28R-201T accident near Brewer, ME?
A pilot on a personal cross-country flight diverted to a small grass field. After aborting the landing due to ice patches, the airplane struck a tree, fell, and slid into a garage and parked car.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Mar 1992 involved a Piper PA-28R-201T, registration N3768M, operated by James A. Chalfin, at Brewer, ME.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S DECISION TO LAND ON AN ICY RUNWAY AND THEN ATTEMPT TO TAKE OFF. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT'S DECISION TO COMPLETELY RAISE THE FLAPS AFTER THE BALKED LANDING.
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