On August 12, 2002, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N6658H) was involved in an aviation accident near Hillman, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane was destroyed by fire and impact after a takeoff where it banked towards another runway, struck the ground with its right wing, and experienced engine roughness and power fluctuations.
Accident Overview
The airplane was destroyed by postcrash fire and impact forces. According to reports, after takeoff the aircraft was observed banking towards another runway at the private airstrip. The airplane then tipped to its right side, causing the right wing to strike the ground. Witnesses described the engine cutting in and out and running roughly prior to the accident.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage established control continuity to the cockpit area. The engine remained attached to its mounts and exhibited fire damage. Investigators removed the top spark plugs and rotated the engine by hand. Thumb compression from each cylinder was confirmed, and valve train continuity was verified. The spark plugs were black in color with white deposits.
Propeller and Pilot Information
The airplane was equipped with a propeller marked "UN AIRWORTHY". The pilot's last medical certificate was issued in 1982.
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