Aircraft collision with terrain following takeoff

Casualties unknown • Chinle, AZ, US

An aircraft failed to clear rising terrain after the engine produced insufficient power during a takeoff roll on a dirt runway.

What happened

During a takeoff roll on a dirt runway, the pilot reported that the normally aspirated engine did not produce enough power to climb over terrain located next to the airstrip. The aircraft initially became airborne at an airspeed of 65 knots, climbing only between 2 and 4 feet above the surface before settling back onto the runway.

The pilot continued the takeoff roll, and after reaching 70 knots, the aircraft became airborne a second time. As the airplane passed the departure end of the runway, the landing gear struck a perimeter boundary fence. Following this impact, the aircraft collided with gradually rising terrain.

At the time of the accident, there was no wind or turbulence, and the temperature was 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Calculations based on these conditions indicated a density altitude of approximately 7,900 feet.

Probable cause

The engine failed to produce adequate power to climb over terrain adjacent to the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1994-08-18 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Chinle, AZ?

An aircraft failed to clear rising terrain after the engine produced insufficient power during a takeoff roll on a dirt runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1994-08-18 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N5765R, operated by Ronald E. Pate, at Chinle, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed to produce adequate power to climb over terrain adjacent to the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02082. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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