On July 12, 1998, a Grumman American AA-5B (registration N28299) operated by Hall, Robert, C. was involved in an aviation accident near Chico Hot Sprgs, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot-in-command's selection of the wrong runway for takeoff. Factors contributing to the accident were high density altitude, rising terrain and a fence post. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot departed south despite being advised that such takeoffs were not normally allowed. During climbout, the left wing struck a fence, and the aircraft impacted terrain. High elevation and warm temperature resulted in a density altitude of 7,784 feet.
Departure Briefing
The pilot-in-command was informed by the hotel operations manager that takeoffs to the south were 'not normally allowed.' Nevertheless, the pilot chose to depart heading south because of the wind conditions. The manager subsequently arranged for the roadway that functioned as runway 14/32 to be closed and attended by personnel.
Incident Sequence
After takeoff, while executing a left turning crosswind climb, the aircraft's left wing contacted a fence. The aircraft then struck the ground and came to a stop. The terrain located to the south and east rose upward and was at a higher altitude than the departure runway.
Environmental Conditions
The airstrip was situated at an elevation of 5,280 feet. The warm ambient air temperature combined with the high field elevation produced a density altitude of 7,784 feet.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 12 Jul 1998 Grumman American AA-5B accident near Chico Hot Sprgs, MT?
The pilot departed south despite being advised that such takeoffs were not normally allowed. During climbout, the left wing struck a fence, and the aircraft impacted terrain. High elevation and warm temperature resulted in a density altitude of 7,784 feet.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Jul 1998 involved a Grumman American AA-5B, registration N28299, operated by Hall, Robert, C., at Chico Hot Sprgs, MT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot-in-command's selection of the wrong runway for takeoff. Factors contributing to the accident were high density altitude, rising terrain and a fence post.
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