On March 22, 1998, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2321D) was involved in an aviation accident near Tampa, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the student pilot to maintain directional control of the airplane and proper runway alignment, which result in an in-flight collision with a hangar. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During initial climb after takeoff, an airplane drifted left and struck a hangar roof about 25 feet above ground. A witness observed a left bank of 25-30 degrees and increasing pitch before losing sight.
Incident Details
The accident occurred during the initial climb phase immediately after lift-off. The airplane drifted left from its flight path and struck the roof of a hangar. The collision took place at an elevation of about 25 feet above ground level. A witness who watched the takeoff provided a description of the airplane's motions. The witness reported that during the initial climb, the airplane banked to the left by approximately 25 to 30 degrees. Concurrently, the pitch-up attitude was increasing. The witness then lost sight of the airplane and noted damage to the top of the hangar.
Damage Assessment
The hangar roof was damaged as a result of the impact. The damage was limited to the upper portion of the structure. No information regarding damage to the airplane itself or other objects was included in the source.
What happened in the 22 Mar 1998 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Tampa, FL?
During initial climb after takeoff, an airplane drifted left and struck a hangar roof about 25 feet above ground. A witness observed a left bank of 25-30 degrees and increasing pitch before losing sight.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Mar 1998 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N2321D, at Tampa, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
failure of the student pilot to maintain directional control of the airplane and proper runway alignment, which result in an in-flight collision with a hangar.
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