Casualties unknown

Loss of Control and Post-Impact Fire During Initial Climb (N8126V)

Watertown, WI, US

On August 15, 2000, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N8126V) was involved in an aviation accident near Watertown, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft was operating at a weight exceeding its certified maximum gross weight at the start of the flight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-15Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot lost control of an aircraft during the initial climb phase following a downwind takeoff, resulting in a terrain impact and subsequent fire.

What happened

The pilot performed a takeoff from runway 11 using a downwind configuration. During the initial climb, the pilot lost control of the aircraft, which subsequently impacted the terrain. The impact was followed by a post-impact fire that destroyed the airplane.

At the time of the accident, the wind was reported at 300 degrees magnetic at 10 knots. Investigation into the weight and balance of the aircraft revealed that it was approximately 189 lbs over the certified maximum gross weight at the start of the flight.

The investigation

Investigators examined the airplane and its mechanical systems for any contributing factors. No anomalies were identified within the flight control systems that could be linked to the pre-impact condition. Additionally, the engine and all related systems were inspected, and no malfunctions or anomalies were found that could have contributed to the loss of control.

Probable cause

The aircraft was operating at a weight exceeding its certified maximum gross weight at the start of the flight.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Aug 2000 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Watertown, WI?

A pilot lost control of an aircraft during the initial climb phase following a downwind takeoff, resulting in a terrain impact and subsequent fire.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Aug 2000 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N8126V, at Watertown, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was operating at a weight exceeding its certified maximum gross weight at the start of the flight.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21658. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.