2002-07-16: Piper PA-11S — Palermo, ME

Casualties unknown • Palermo, ME, US

Probable cause

pilot's failure to maintain directional control and his inadequate compensation for wind. A factor was the crosswind.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot flew to Sheepscot Lake to test and monitor the oil pressure gauge that he had just installed. During a high speed taxi test toward the northeast, the pilot said the wind lifted the left wing and dropped the right wing into the water, which caused the aircraft to nose over. The front spreader bar on the floats broke, and the propeller struck the right float and it filled with water. Wind at an airport 15 miles away was from 350 degrees at 10 knots. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-07-16 Piper PA-11S accident near Palermo, ME?

The pilot flew to Sheepscot Lake to test and monitor the oil pressure gauge that he had just installed. During a high speed taxi test toward the northeast, the pilot said the wind lifted the left wing and dropped the right wing into the water, which caused the aircraft to nose over. The front spreader bar on the…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-07-16 involved a Piper PA-11S, registration N4504M, at Palermo, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

pilot's failure to maintain directional control and his inadequate compensation for wind. A factor was the crosswind.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020730X01247. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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