Casualties unknown

1997-06-25: Piper PA-28RT-201 (N8326S) — Centerline Aviation, Inc. — Whitewright, TX

Whitewright, TX, US

On June 25, 1997, a Piper PA-28RT-201 (registration N8326S) operated by Centerline Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Whitewright, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable area for takeoff. A factor was the dirt bank (terrace). This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a takeoff roll in a field, an airplane hit a dirt terrace, turned toward a fence, struck the fence, and the left wing separated from the fuselage.

Accident Overview

During the takeoff roll in a field, the airplane encountered a dirt terrace, which caused it to veer toward a fence. The airplane subsequently struck the fence, resulting in the left wing separating from the fuselage.

Pilot and Passenger Accounts

According to the pilot, he walked the field prior to attempting the takeoff and calculated the takeoff distance. Both the pilot and his passenger reported that the takeoff was aborted when the airplane did not accelerate fast enough.

Witness Statements

Two witnesses reported that the takeoff was not aborted until the airplane hit the terrace.

Damage

The left wing separated from the fuselage after the airplane struck the fence.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08132. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.