On October 17, 1992, a Piper PA-22 (registration N1660A) operated by Bailey, Oscar H. was involved in an aviation accident near Seward, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOTS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ON THE GROUND. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOTS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED DURING THE TAKEOFF CLIMB, HIS INADEQUATE TRAINING, HIS LACK OF TOTAL EXPERIENCE, AND THE DITCH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A witness reported the airplane took off in a nose-high attitude, stalled, and fell, then veered left off the runway into a ditch. The unlicensed pilot, with no formal training and only three previous flights with a friend, could not recall the accident details.
Accident Overview
According to a witness, the airplane lifted off in an extremely nose-high attitude during its takeoff roll. It then stopped flying and descended to the ground. After contacting the ground, the airplane veered off the left side of the runway and collided with a large ditch.
Pilot Background
The pilot, who was not licensed, stated he had never received any official flight instruction. His only previous flying experience consisted of three flights with a friend during the year prior to the accident. The pilot further indicated that the accident flight was his second solo flight. He reported that he could not recall exactly what happened during the accident sequence.
Investigation Details
Investigators documented the witness account and the pilot's statements. The airplane came to rest in the ditch after departing the runway surface to the left. No additional details about the aircraft, registration, or environmental conditions were provided.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 Oct 1992 Piper PA-22 accident near Seward, AK?
A witness reported the airplane took off in a nose-high attitude, stalled, and fell, then veered left off the runway into a ditch. The unlicensed pilot, with no formal training and only three previous flights with a friend, could not recall the accident details.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Oct 1992 involved a Piper PA-22, registration N1660A, operated by Bailey, Oscar H., at Seward, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOTS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ON THE GROUND. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOTS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED DURING THE TAKEOFF CLIMB, HIS INADEQUATE TRAINING, HIS LACK OF TOTAL EXPERIENCE, AND THE DITCH.
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