1997-07-08: Piper PA-18-135 — Biddle, MT

Casualties unknown • Biddle, MT, US

Probable cause

The pilot-in-command's failure to maintain adequate airspeed which resulted in a stall/mush. A factor contributing to the accident was the tailwind condition on takeoff.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot took off downhill and to the northeast with a left quartering tail wind from the southwest of approximately 5-8 knots. Shortly thereafter the aircraft crossed over a bluff where the terrain dropped off, and passed over an area populated with deciduous trees. The aircraft began to settle and the pilot executed a left turn toward the west. Just after the aircraft cleared the tree line, it impacted the ground left wing and nose low, coming to rest 49 feet beyond the initial ground impact point. A post crash fire developed and the pilot and his wife exited with minor injuries.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-07-08 Piper PA-18-135 accident near Biddle, MT?

The pilot took off downhill and to the northeast with a left quartering tail wind from the southwest of approximately 5-8 knots. Shortly thereafter the aircraft crossed over a bluff where the terrain dropped off, and passed over an area populated with deciduous trees. The aircraft began to settle and the pilot…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-07-08 involved a Piper PA-18-135, registration N3253B, at Biddle, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot-in-command's failure to maintain adequate airspeed which resulted in a stall/mush. A factor contributing to the accident was the tailwind condition on takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08506. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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