Aircraft impact in open field following unusual flight maneuvers

Casualties unknown • Westerly, RI, US

An aircraft departed an airport normally before experiencing significant shaking and a sudden left-hand bank that resulted in a terrain impact.

What happened

A passenger reported that the aircraft's departure proceeded normally, though the flight was characterized by intense shaking. During the climb, the airplane began a slow right-hand turn. The pilot appeared concerned and reached toward the air vent area before moving his right hand to the communications and navigation radio controls, where he appeared to adjust a dial.

Immediately following this adjustment, the pilot gripped the yoke with both hands and turned it approximately 90 degrees to the left. This maneuver caused the airplane to bank to the left and descend, ultimately impacting terrain in an open field located roughly 200 feet beyond the departure end of the runway. Witnesses on the ground noted that the engine sounded as if it were operating normally during the initial departure.

The investigation

Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed rotational damage on both propeller blades.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-09-05 Piper PA-32-260 accident near Westerly, RI?

An aircraft departed an airport normally before experiencing significant shaking and a sudden left-hand bank that resulted in a terrain impact.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-09-05 involved a Piper PA-32-260, registration N4830S, at Westerly, RI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's loss of control of the airplane during a turn.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19850. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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