On June 21, 2000, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N55769) was involved in an aviation accident near Ben Wheeler, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of airspeed resulting in a stall during takeoff while clearing powerlines at the departure end of the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft stalled during takeoff from a dry turf runway, striking powerlines at the departure end and impacting the ground. The pilot failed to submit the required accident report.
What happened
The incident occurred while an airplane was conducting takeoff and initial climb operations from a dry turf runway. As the aircraft cleared the marked powerlines located at the departure end of the runway, it experienced a significant loss of airspeed. This aerodynamic condition resulted in a stall, causing the airplane to strike the ground with its right wing.
Following the impact, emergency responders and authorities made numerous attempts to establish radio contact with the pilot. These efforts were unsuccessful, and no communication was received from the cockpit or the individual operating the aircraft.
Probable cause
Loss of airspeed resulting in a stall during takeoff while clearing powerlines at the departure end of the runway.
What happened in the 21 Jun 2000 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Ben Wheeler, TX?
An aircraft stalled during takeoff from a dry turf runway, striking powerlines at the departure end and impacting the ground. The pilot failed to submit the required accident report.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Jun 2000 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N55769, at Ben Wheeler, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Loss of airspeed resulting in a stall during takeoff while clearing powerlines at the departure end of the runway.
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