On July 7, 1993, a Piper PA-28-160 (registration N5638W) operated by Mueller, Reinhard B. was involved in an aviation accident near California, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot landed at a private field to wait out a storm, then departed. During climb out, the engine lost partial power, the landing gear struck tree tops, and the aircraft settled on a grassy hillside, sustaining substantial damage.
Incident Overview
A pilot operating a single-engine aircraft landed at a private field to wait for an approaching storm to pass. After the weather cleared, the pilot departed Phillips's Field. During the climb out, the pilot reported that the engine lost partial power. The aircraft's landing gear then brushed the top limbs of a line of trees, and the aircraft subsequently settled on a grassy hillside approximately a quarter mile from the airport.
Aircraft Damage
The aircraft sustained substantial damage as a result of the event.
Post-Accident Examination
A postaccident examination revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunction with the airframe, engine, or accessories.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 7 Jul 1993 Piper PA-28-160 accident near California, MO?
A pilot landed at a private field to wait out a storm, then departed. During climb out, the engine lost partial power, the landing gear struck tree tops, and the aircraft settled on a grassy hillside, sustaining substantial damage.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Jul 1993 involved a Piper PA-28-160, registration N5638W, operated by Mueller, Reinhard B., at California, MO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED.