On May 31, 1998, a Piper PA-22 (registration N200HA) was involved in an aviation accident near Balko, OK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate preflight planning which failed to assure adequate climb performance to clear an obstacle (fence) during takeoff climb. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff from a pasture, an airplane's landing gear struck a barbed wire fence, bending the aileron. The pilot forced a landing after losing control, impacting on the left wing and gear.
Incident Overview
During the initial takeoff climb from a pasture, the airplane's main landing gear struck and severed the top wire of a barbed wire fence. The wire then flipped up and bent the inboard section of the right aileron downward. The pilot became unable to prevent the airplane from turning left and made a decision to land immediately. He forced the airplane down, resulting in an impact on the left wing tip and left main landing gear.
Pilot Actions and Conditions
The pilot reported that he had examined the takeoff area before the flight and determined a point at which he would abort the takeoff if not airborne. The airplane lifted off at that predetermined point but would not climb out of ground effect. According to the pilot, the wind was gusty, and it was possible the airplane lifted off at the peak of a gust. The pilot also stated that it was hot, with a temperature of 93 degrees Fahrenheit, and the density altitude of 5,700 feet was a factor he had considered in his takeoff planning.
Pilot Comments on Prevention
The pilot indicated that a later departure for cooler temperatures or leaving a passenger behind could have prevented the accident.