Casualties unknown

Grass Strip Departure Ends in Tree and Power Line Strike (N9357N)

Gettysburg, PA, US

On June 11, 2002, a Piper PA-28-200 (registration N9357N) was involved in an aviation accident near Gettysburg, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to accurately compute takeoff performance and his failure to establish a positive climb resulting in a 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane departing a 1,800-foot grass strip failed to climb, struck a tree and power line about 500 feet beyond the runway, shearing the right wing. The pilot reported weight below maximum gross and no malfunctions.

Accident Details

An airplane was departing from a grass airstrip measuring 1,800 feet in length. During the takeoff, the aircraft remained in ground effect and was unable to gain altitude. It subsequently struck a tree and a power line located approximately 500 feet beyond the end of the runway, resulting in the separation of the right wing from the fuselage.

Aircraft and Pilot Information

The pilot reported that the airplane's weight at the time of the accident was about 300 pounds below the maximum gross weight. He did not report any malfunctions with the engine or airframe.

Runway Conditions

Examination of the landing facility after the accident revealed that the turf was mowed to a height of about 6 inches.

Performance Data

According to the airplane's pilot operating handbook, the takeoff performance for a paved level dry runway at maximum gross weight includes a ground roll of approximately 1,000 feet and a total distance of 2,100 feet to clear a 50-foot obstacle.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Jun 2002 Piper PA-28-200 accident near Gettysburg, PA?

An airplane departing a 1,800-foot grass strip failed to climb, struck a tree and power line about 500 feet beyond the runway, shearing the right wing. The pilot reported weight below maximum gross and no malfunctions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Jun 2002 involved a Piper PA-28-200, registration N9357N, at Gettysburg, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to accurately compute takeoff performance and his failure to establish a positive climb resulting in a collision with trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020614X00885. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.