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Casualties unknown

Passenger Reports Bumps During Climbout, Airplane Descends Into Trees (N8255N)

Traverse, MI, US

On July 20, 1994, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N8255N) operated by Cherry Capital Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Traverse, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: poor preflight planning and preparation by the pilot for not calculating the weight and balance of his airplane before departure. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During initial climbout, a passenger felt several bumps. After ATC instructed a turn, more bumping occurred as the airplane descended into trees. Investigation found full nose-up trim and takeoff weight 196 pounds over gross weight.

Accident Overview

During the initial climbout from takeoff, a passenger reported feeling the airplane 'bump' several times. Air traffic control then instructed the pilot to turn. The passenger subsequently felt more bumping as the airplane descended into the trees.

Witness Observations

Ground witnesses observed the airplane pitching up and down while flying at a low altitude. They reported that the engine sounded as if it was running at full power.

On-Scene Investigation

An on-scene investigation revealed that the airplane's elevator trim was set to full nose-up. Additionally, the takeoff weight was found to be 196 pounds over the certificated gross weight.

Engine Test

The engine was removed and tested at the manufacturer's facility. During the test run, the engine produced 100 percent of its rated power.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jul 1994 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Traverse, MI?

During initial climbout, a passenger felt several bumps. After ATC instructed a turn, more bumping occurred as the airplane descended into trees. Investigation found full nose-up trim and takeoff weight 196 pounds over gross weight.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jul 1994 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N8255N, operated by Cherry Capital Aviation, at Traverse, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

poor preflight planning and preparation by the pilot for not calculating the weight and balance of his airplane before departure. Factors associated with the accident were the airplane's weight and balance was exceeded, and the pilot's lack of recent experience in the accident airplane.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01702. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.