2003-10-12: Piper PA-24-260B — Archer, FL

Casualties unknown • Archer, FL, US

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll/run, which resulted in the airplane veering off the centerline of the runway and impacting an object, incurring damage.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot said that during the takeoff roll he allowed the airplane to drift to the left of the centerline of the runway 18, and the left wing tip contacted a bale of hay. He said that the impact with the bale caused the airplane to veer about 90 degrees to the left and exit the runway, and after exiting the runway, the airplane impacted another bale of hay, which spun it further to the left incurring damage. According to the pilot, prior to the accident there had been no mechanical failure or malfunction to the airplane or to any of its systems.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-10-12 Piper PA-24-260B accident near Archer, FL?

The pilot said that during the takeoff roll he allowed the airplane to drift to the left of the centerline of the runway 18, and the left wing tip contacted a bale of hay. He said that the impact with the bale caused the airplane to veer about 90 degrees to the left and exit the runway, and after exiting the runway,…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-10-12 involved a Piper PA-24-260B, registration N9291P, at Archer, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll/run, which resulted in the airplane veering off the centerline of the runway and impacting an object, incurring damage.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031215X02035. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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