On May 21, 1994, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N8895W) was involved in an aviation accident near Wingate, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: WAS THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN PROPER ALIGNMENT. FACTORS WERE THE WIND, AND THE PILOT'S IMPROPER CORRECTIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane drifted over trees during initial climb from Runway 17, established a shallow right bank, and its right wing impacted tree tops. The aircraft was the last of seven departing after a fly-in luncheon.
Incident Overview
During the initial takeoff climb from Runway 17, an airplane was observed drifting over large mesquite trees on the west side of the airstrip. The aircraft was the last of seven airplanes to depart following a fly-in luncheon hosted by a local flying club.
Sequence of Events
Witnesses reported that the airplane was approximately 6 to 8 feet above the trees when a shallow right bank was established. Subsequently, the right wing impacted the tops of the trees. The wind was reported as variable from 140 to 150 degrees at 8 to 10 knots.
Witness Observations
The pilot's son and his wife were standing at the departure end of the airstrip taking pictures of the airplane at the time of the incident.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 21 May 1994 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Wingate, TX?
An airplane drifted over trees during initial climb from Runway 17, established a shallow right bank, and its right wing impacted tree tops. The aircraft was the last of seven departing after a fly-in luncheon.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 May 1994 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N8895W, at Wingate, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
WAS THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN PROPER ALIGNMENT. FACTORS WERE THE WIND, AND THE PILOT'S IMPROPER CORRECTIONS.
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