1996-09-08: Piper PA-36-300 — Stanton, TX

Casualties unknown • Stanton, TX, US

Probable cause

Pilot's failure to maintain clearance with a wire resulting in the separation of the rudder and a loss of aircraft control.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

During a local aerial application flight maneuver, the pilot was spraying milo and cleaning up the edge of the field when the airplane struck an electrical wire where the rudder and the vertical stabilizer meet at the leading edge and the wire cutters did not cut the wire. The upper bolt of the rudder was pulled out and the rudder was hanging by cables and the lower bolt. During the 15 mile flight to the airport, the rudder vibrated loose and separated from the aircraft. When the airplane was slowed for the landing/flare the pilot lost control of the airplane.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-09-08 Piper PA-36-300 accident near Stanton, TX?

During a local aerial application flight maneuver, the pilot was spraying milo and cleaning up the edge of the field when the airplane struck an electrical wire where the rudder and the vertical stabilizer meet at the leading edge and the wire cutters did not cut the wire. The upper bolt of the rudder was pulled out…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-09-08 involved a Piper PA-36-300, registration N57871, at Stanton, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Pilot's failure to maintain clearance with a wire resulting in the separation of the rudder and a loss of aircraft control.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06749. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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