On August 19, 1997, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N9455J) operated by Gary M. Cavasos was involved in an aviation accident near Gila, NM. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's impairment of judgment and performance due to alcohol, and his failure to maintain directional control of the airplane, which resulted in a ground swerve, and collision with vegetation (cactus) and a fence. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot landed due to an ill passenger, then took off at dusk from an unlit airstrip. During takeoff, the airplane hit soft terrain, struck a cactus and fence, ruptured a fuel cell, and caught fire, resulting in extensive damage. The pilot's blood alcohol content was 0.203.
Flight Details
According to a report from the New Mexico State Police, a pilot stated that during a flight, a passenger became ill. The pilot landed at a private airstrip. After the passenger felt better, the pilot decided to take off at dusk from the unlit airstrip.
Accident Sequence
During the takeoff roll, the airplane encountered soft terrain. It veered left, and the left wing struck a cactus and a fence. The airplane then went back onto the runway area and exited the other side before being maneuvered back onto the runway. During this sequence, a fuel cell in the left wing ruptured, and a fire erupted, causing extensive damage to the airplane.
Investigation
Subsequent investigation by the New Mexico State Police showed the pilot's blood alcohol content was 0.203.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 19 Aug 1997 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Gila, NM?
A pilot landed due to an ill passenger, then took off at dusk from an unlit airstrip. During takeoff, the airplane hit soft terrain, struck a cactus and fence, ruptured a fuel cell, and caught fire, resulting in extensive damage. The pilot's blood alcohol content was 0.203.
Were there any fatalities in the 19 Aug 1997 Piper PA-28-180 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Aug 1997 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N9455J, operated by Gary M. Cavasos, at Gila, NM.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's impairment of judgment and performance due to alcohol, and his failure to maintain directional control of the airplane, which resulted in a ground swerve, and collision with vegetation (cactus) and a fence. Related factors were: the soft runway condition and surrounding obstructions (high vegetation and…