Casualties unknown

Pilot Unable to Climb After Short Field Takeoff, Aircraft Flips Over (N2520P)

Rice, WA, US

On April 29, 1995, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N2520P) was involved in an aviation accident near Rice, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN THE PROPER CLIMB RATE. A FACTOR WAS TREES IN THE FLIGHT PATH. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a short field takeoff from a private airstrip, the pilot applied full flaps at rotation, but the aircraft failed to climb. After avoiding trees near stall speed, the aircraft stalled and was directed to the terrain, flipping over upon impact. Three persons and over 40 gallons of fuel were on board.

Accident Summary

During a short field maneuver from a private airstrip, the pilot reported a normal takeoff roll followed by the application of full flaps at rotation, which he stated was in accordance with the aircraft manual. However, the aircraft was unable to climb. The pilot then maneuvered to avoid trees ahead, flying at or near stall speed. As the aircraft began stalling, the pilot deliberately aimed the airplane at the terrain. After impact, the aircraft flipped over.

The aircraft was loaded with three persons and over 40 gallons of fuel at the time of the incident. The pilot provided a detailed account of the event, noting that the short field procedure was executed as specified in the aircraft's operating manual.

No other details, such as aircraft type, registration, or date, were included in the pilot's report. The investigation continues to analyze the sequence of events leading to the loss of control.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03390. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.