Aircraft stall and impact during takeoff from hay field

Casualties unknown • Florence, IN, US

An aircraft stalled and struck the terrain while attempting to climb away from a rough hay field during takeoff.

What happened

During a takeoff attempt from a hay field, the pilot encountered an area of particularly rough terrain. The pilot reported that the aircraft was bouncing and shaking due to the surface conditions, prompting an immediate effort to get the plane airborne.

After pulling back on the control stick, the aircraft became airborne. However, after passing over several hay bales and a fence, the pilot was unable to maintain flight. The right wing dropped and made contact with the ground, causing the aircraft to spin to the left before coming to rest on top of another fence. There were no fatalities or injuries reported in this incident.

Findings

  • The pilot's attempt to climb away from rough terrain led to a loss of altitude.
  • Contact between the right wing and the ground occurred during the climb phase.

Probable cause

the pilot was unable to maintain flight after takeoff due to the aircraft stalling while attempting to clear obstacles

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-10-08 Piper J-3 accident near Florence, IN?

An aircraft stalled and struck the terrain while attempting to climb away from a rough hay field during takeoff.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-10-08 involved a Piper J-3, registration N71027, operated by Douglas D. Hatton, at Florence, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot was unable to maintain flight after takeoff due to the aircraft stalling while attempting to clear obstacles

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031015X01739. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…