Casualties unknown

Aircraft Collides with Fence During Takeoff in Strong Wind Gusts (N6785W)

Elko, NV, US

On July 16, 1994, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N6785W) operated by Dietz, Craig S. was involved in an aviation accident near Elko, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and altitude during takeoff due to a downdraft, which resulted in an impact with a fence. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

Two pilots encountered a severe downdraft during takeoff, causing the aircraft to descend and strike a fence. No mechanical issues were reported.

What happened

The flight crew initiated a departure from Runway 23, which measured 7,211 feet in length. Shortly after liftoff, the aircraft climbed to approximately 200 feet above ground level when it encountered a significant downdraft. The sudden loss of lift caused the aircraft to descend rapidly and collide with a fence.

The investigation

Post-accident examination revealed no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction that would have precluded normal operation. The pilots reported that the weather conditions were severe, with winds blowing from 340 degrees at 18 knots and gusting up to 54 knots.

Findings

The primary factor in this accident was the encounter with a downdraft during the critical climb phase. The strong wind shear likely contributed to the loss of altitude before the crew could recover. There were no reported mechanical problems with the aircraft systems.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and altitude during takeoff due to a downdraft, which resulted in an impact with a fence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jul 1994 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Elko, NV?

Two pilots encountered a severe downdraft during takeoff, causing the aircraft to descend and strike a fence. No mechanical issues were reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jul 1994 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N6785W, operated by Dietz, Craig S., at Elko, NV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and altitude during takeoff due to a downdraft, which resulted in an impact with a fence.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01782. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.