Aircraft wing strike during flight review takeoff

Casualties unknown • Tooele, UT, US

A private pilot experienced an over-rotation and subsequent wing strike during a practice short field takeoff during a flight review.

What happened

During a flight review, the pilot applied nose-up elevator trim during the initial roll to assist with rotation for a practice short field takeoff. Following brake release, the aircraft accelerated normally, and rotation was initiated at approximately 70 knots.

The aircraft became over-rotated. Shortly after becoming airborne, it entered a semi-stalled condition, causing the left wing to drop and make contact with the runway. The instructor pilot applied right rudder from the right side of the cockpit, which leveled the wings, but the aircraft's path shifted approximately 30 degrees left of the original runway heading.

As the aircraft maintained a nose-high attitude and obstacles were observed in the new flight path, the throttle was reduced to idle. The impact with the ground was immediate, causing the collapse of both the nose gear and the right main gear. The aircraft skidded and came to rest perpendicular to the original takeoff heading. The occupants were not injured.

Probable cause

The aircraft over-rotated during a practice short field takeoff, leading to a semi-stalled condition and subsequent wing strike on the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-05-05 Piper PA-46-310P accident near Tooele, UT?

A private pilot experienced an over-rotation and subsequent wing strike during a practice short field takeoff during a flight review.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-05-05 involved a Piper PA-46-310P, registration N977RA, at Tooele, UT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft over-rotated during a practice short field takeoff, leading to a semi-stalled condition and subsequent wing strike on the runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08015. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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