Casualties unknown

1999-12-17: Piper PA-32RT-300 (N2215U) — Geneva, AL

Geneva, AL, US

On December 17, 1999, a Piper PA-32RT-300 (registration N2215U) was involved in an aviation accident near Geneva, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff which resulted in a stall and the subsequent collision with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A witness reported that a pilot had trouble starting the engine, which coughed and emitted black smoke. After takeoff, the aircraft weaved, bounced, and then disappeared behind trees. Post-crash examination found no anomalies.

Accident Sequence

A pilot witness observed the accident aircraft during its preflight and takeoff. According to the witness, the pilot experienced difficulty starting the engine. The engine coughed and sputtered, emitting black smoke from the exhaust. Once started, the engine ran smoothly. The pilot then taxied the aircraft to runway 29, stopped short of the runway, and performed a run-up. After the run-up, the aircraft taxied onto the runway and began its takeoff roll.

During the takeoff roll, the witness stated that the aircraft was weaving left and right as it proceeded down the runway. The aircraft lifted off approximately 1,000 feet down the runway, then descended and bounced on the nose gear. The aircraft subsequently began climbing again while banking to the left. It again descended and then climbed, still banking to the left, before disappearing behind some trees.

Examination

An examination of the wreckage did not reveal any anomalies to the airframe or the engine. No further details were provided regarding the condition of the aircraft or the outcome of the flight.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20190. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.