Aircraft collision with trees during takeoff from dirt airstrip…

Aircraft collision with trees during takeoff from dirt airstrip

Casualties unknown • Sunriver, OR, US

A pilot experienced a loss of altitude and airspeed during a takeoff climb, resulting in an aircraft collision with trees near a dirt airstrip.

What happened

During a takeoff from a dirt airstrip, the pilot of the aircraft extended full flaps immediately after liftoff. The aircraft initially established an ascent rate of approximately 500 feet per minute and reached an altitude sufficient to clear nearby trees. However, during the climb, the aircraft's altitude decreased by roughly 20 to 30 feet, accompanied by a drop in airspeed of approximately 15 to 20 MPH.

Because there was insufficient remaining runway to perform a landing, the pilot elected to continue the takeoff attempt. Ultimately, the aircraft failed to maintain enough altitude and collided with trees. The pilot was not injured during the event.

Probable cause

The aircraft failed to maintain sufficient altitude to clear surrounding trees following a loss of airspeed and altitude during the initial climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-05-23 Piper PA-22-150 accident near Sunriver, OR?

A pilot experienced a loss of altitude and airspeed during a takeoff climb, resulting in an aircraft collision with trees near a dirt airstrip.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-05-23 involved a Piper PA-22-150, registration N7815D, at Sunriver, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft failed to maintain sufficient altitude to clear surrounding trees following a loss of airspeed and altitude during the initial climb.

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