On August 3, 2002, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N7362J) was involved in an aviation accident near Spartanburg, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the takeoff initial climb which resulted in an inadvertent stall and subsequent collision with an embankment. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft collided with terrain after initiating a climbing turn during departure; examination found no pre-impact anomalies.
Accident Narrative
The accident occurred as the airplane approached the departure end of runway 5. The pilot initiated a right climbing turn after departure. Witnesses reported that the aircraft did not appear to gain altitude or airspeed during the maneuver.
Witness Observations
According to witnesses, the airplane was subsequently seen in a descending right turn. It then collided with the ground and burst into flames. The wreckage came to rest on an approximate 45-degree embankment covered in brush and tall grass.
Wreckage and Examination
The debris field extended over an area measuring 75 feet long by 75 feet wide. Investigators examined all major airframe and engine components. No evidence of pre-impact airframe or engine anomalies was found.
What happened in the 3 Aug 2002 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Spartanburg, SC?
An aircraft collided with terrain after initiating a climbing turn during departure; examination found no pre-impact anomalies.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Aug 2002 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N7362J, at Spartanburg, SC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the takeoff initial climb which resulted in an inadvertent stall and subsequent collision with an embankment.
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