On August 2, 1994, a DE Havilland TIGER MOTH DH-82A (registration N38KH) operated by Elmer E. Sandmire was involved in an aviation accident near Interlochen, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the failure of the pilot to obtain the proper climb rate, and inadequate compensation for wind conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Pilot attempted takeoff on runway 34 surrounded by 50-foot trees. After rotation, wind shifted 180 degrees, airspeed decayed, and the aircraft hit trees, broke landing gear, and nosed over.
Incident Summary
A pilot reported that during an attempted takeoff on Runway 34, the aircraft encountered a sudden wind shift immediately after becoming airborne. The runway environment is characterized by 50-foot trees surrounding all sides. The pilot stated that the wind shifted 180 degrees, causing the airplane to lose airspeed. In response, the pilot attempted to land back on the runway before colliding with trees at the departure end.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane struck the ground hard, resulting in the landing gear breaking and the aircraft nosing over.
Weather Information
The nearest reporting station, located 13 miles northeast of the accident site, reported wind from 050 degrees at 8 knots. No other weather information was provided.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 Aug 1994 DE Havilland TIGER MOTH DH-82A accident near Interlochen, MI?
Pilot attempted takeoff on runway 34 surrounded by 50-foot trees. After rotation, wind shifted 180 degrees, airspeed decayed, and the aircraft hit trees, broke landing gear, and nosed over.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Aug 1994 involved a DE Havilland TIGER MOTH DH-82A, registration N38KH, operated by Elmer E. Sandmire, at Interlochen, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the failure of the pilot to obtain the proper climb rate, and inadequate compensation for wind conditions.