On July 16, 2001, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N8454W) operated by Adam W. Bramblett was involved in an aviation accident near Bridgeport, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's unauthorized operation of a stolen aircraft during night conditions with insufficient experience. 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.
A non-certificated pilot with minimal experience attempted a night landing in a stolen aircraft, resulting in a crash near the runway threshold with no mechanical failures detected.
What happened
During dark night conditions, an individual without a valid pilot certificate attempted to land a stolen airplane on a lighted runway. The aircraft touched down and came to rest in a nose-down attitude, tilted between 20 to 30 degrees, approximately five feet to the right of the runway centerline at the approach end.
The investigation
A thorough examination of the engine and airframe was conducted following the incident. Inspectors found no discrepancies or mechanical failures that would have prevented normal operation prior to the accident. The pilot was reported to have only six hours of previous flight time.
Probable cause
The pilot's unauthorized operation of a stolen aircraft during night conditions with insufficient experience.
What happened in the 16 Jul 2001 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Bridgeport, TX?
A non-certificated pilot with minimal experience attempted a night landing in a stolen aircraft, resulting in a crash near the runway threshold with no mechanical failures detected.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Jul 2001 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N8454W, operated by Adam W. Bramblett, at Bridgeport, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's unauthorized operation of a stolen aircraft during night conditions with insufficient experience.
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