On August 2, 1993, a Piper PA-31P (registration N25TC) operated by Dutch, Dennis D. was involved in an aviation accident near Coffeyville, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The right engine surging and appearing to overspeed shortly after takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control and ground impact. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Shortly after liftoff, the right engine surged and appeared to overspeed at approximately 20 feet above ground level. The aircraft banked sharply to the right, causing the wing to strike the terrain before skidding backward.
What happened
The pilot reported that shortly after lift-off, while the airplane was approximately 20 feet above ground level and traveling at roughly 100 mph, the right engine surged and appeared to overspeed. Following this mechanical anomaly, the airplane banked sharply to the right. The right wing subsequently struck the ground, causing the aircraft to execute a 180-degree turn before skidding backward across the surface.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft was conducted to determine the cause of the incident. The investigation revealed no evidence of any pre-impact mechanical malfunction with the airframe or systems other than the engine surge described by the pilot.
Probable cause
The right engine surging and appearing to overspeed shortly after takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control and ground impact.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 Aug 1993 Piper PA-31P accident near Coffeyville, KS?
Shortly after liftoff, the right engine surged and appeared to overspeed at approximately 20 feet above ground level. The aircraft banked sharply to the right, causing the wing to strike the terrain before skidding backward.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Aug 1993 involved a Piper PA-31P, registration N25TC, operated by Dutch, Dennis D., at Coffeyville, KS.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The right engine surging and appearing to overspeed shortly after takeoff, which resulted in a loss of control and ground impact.
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