On August 22, 1998, a Cessna 175A (registration N6874E) was involved in an aviation accident near Erie, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain flying speed (above stall speed) and the subsequent stall/spin. Contributing factors were the tailwind, high density altitude, and aircraft overweight conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot with 250 hours of flight experience took off 50 pounds over maximum gross weight at Tri-County Airport. Witnesses observed a longer than normal takeoff and a wind shift. The right wing dropped abruptly at 50-100 feet, leading to a half-turn spin to the ground.
Introduction
A pilot with an estimated 250 hours of flight experience visited Tri-County Airport for his second trip to see family members. After fueling his airplane, he boarded three passengers for a sight-seeing flight.
Weight and Balance
The aircraft's weight was calculated to be 50 pounds over the maximum gross weight. Center of gravity and performance data could not be calculated due to configuration and envelope limitations.
Takeoff and Witness Observations
He was observed taking off on runway 15, which has an elevation of 5,130 feet and a density altitude of 8,185 feet. A witness noted a wind shift to 300 degrees at 12 to 18 knots. Another witness reported a longer than normal takeoff roll. At an altitude of 50 to 100 feet, the airplane's right wing dropped abruptly. The aircraft then spun half a turn before impacting the ground.