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Takeoff with Crosswind Leads to Veer and Ditch Collision (N8056P)

Fort Pierce, FL, US

On September 11, 1994, a Piper PA-32-301 (registration N8056P) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Pierce, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS AND PREMATURE LIFT-OFF. THE CROSSWIND WAS A FACTOR. 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 takeoff in an 11-knot right crosswind, the aircraft appeared tail heavy, dragged its tail, drifted left, lifted off prematurely, touched down nose-high in grass, and struck a drainage ditch before stopping on a ramp.

Accident Sequence

During the takeoff roll, the pilot was operating with an 11-knot right crosswind. Witnesses reported that the aircraft appeared tail heavy. As the aircraft accelerated, the tail dragged along the ground and bounced. The aircraft then began to drift to the left. The pilot lifted the aircraft off the runway before it reached normal lift-off speed. After becoming airborne, the aircraft continued to veer left. It subsequently touched down in a nose-high attitude on the grass adjacent to the runway. The aircraft then collided with a drainage ditch and came to rest on a parking ramp.

Witness Observations

Multiple witnesses stated that the aircraft's tail dragged and bounced during the takeoff roll. They also noted that the aircraft appeared tail heavy prior to the attempted departure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Sept 1994 Piper PA-32-301 accident near Fort Pierce, FL?

During takeoff in an 11-knot right crosswind, the aircraft appeared tail heavy, dragged its tail, drifted left, lifted off prematurely, touched down nose-high in grass, and struck a drainage ditch before stopping on a ramp.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Sept 1994 Piper PA-32-301 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Sept 1994 involved a Piper PA-32-301, registration N8056P, at Fort Pierce, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR WIND CONDITIONS AND PREMATURE LIFT-OFF. THE CROSSWIND WAS A FACTOR.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02318. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.