On March 27, 2003, a Piper PA-28RT-201 (registration N8098Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Berlin, NJ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate preflight inspection which led to an unsecured cowling and loss of aircraft control. Factors were the pilot's diverted attention and the unsecured cowling. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After performing engine maintenance, a pilot failed to secure the left cowling, which separated after takeoff. The pilot attempted to return but landed hard, causing gear collapse.
Accident Sequence
Prior to the accident flight, the pilot performed maintenance on the airplane's engine with the cowling open. After completing the maintenance, the pilot believed that the left side of the cowling was not properly secured. Following takeoff on runway 23, at approximately 300 feet above ground level, the left-side cowling unlatched and repeatedly struck the windshield. The pilot then initiated a left turn back toward the airport with the intention of landing on runway 05. The airplane subsequently landed hard on a grass area between runway 5 and a taxiway. The force of the landing caused the landing gear to collapse, and the airplane slid to a stop.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 27 Mar 2003 Piper PA-28RT-201 accident near Berlin, NJ?
After performing engine maintenance, a pilot failed to secure the left cowling, which separated after takeoff. The pilot attempted to return but landed hard, causing gear collapse.
Were there any fatalities in the 27 Mar 2003 Piper PA-28RT-201 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Mar 2003 involved a Piper PA-28RT-201, registration N8098Q, at Berlin, NJ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inadequate preflight inspection which led to an unsecured cowling and loss of aircraft control. Factors were the pilot's diverted attention and the unsecured cowling.
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