On September 17, 1999, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N9575T) was involved in an aviation accident near Warrensburg, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Aircraft control not being maintained by the private pilot candidate and the inadequate supervision by the FAA Designated Examiner. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an FAA private pilot checkride, the aircraft was destroyed after impacting terrain following an uncontrolled descent. Radar and witness reports indicate a nose-low, counter-clockwise rotating dive. No preexisting anomalies were found, but the aircraft was 96.5 lbs over max gross weight.
Incident Overview
During a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) private pilot checkride, the aircraft was destroyed when it impacted the terrain. FAA radar data indicated that the aircraft was maneuvering prior to the uncontrolled descent. A witness to the accident described the accident airplane in a nose-low, counter-clockwise rotating dive before impacting the terrain.
Post-Accident Examination
Post-accident examination of the airframe and flight control systems revealed no anomalies that could be associated with a preexisting condition. The aircraft's weight was calculated to be approximately 96.5 lbs over the certified maximum gross weight at the beginning of the flight.
Operating Handbook Reference
The PA-38-112 Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) states that, "IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PILOT AND AIRCRAFT OWNER TO INSURE THAT THE AIRPLANE IS LOADED PROPERLY."