On October 20, 2003, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N9338W) was involved in an aviation accident near Mesa, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain an adequate airspeed, which resulted in an inadvertent stall. Also causal, was the pilot's inadequate preflight and failure to secure the right side of the engine cowling prior to departure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane stalled and collided with terrain during an attempted return to the runway after the pilot reported a loose panel. Witness saw aircraft depart with an open cowling.
Incident Overview
During the initial climb from runway 22R, the pilot reported to the tower that a loose panel had been detected and that a return to the airport was necessary. A witness observed the airplane departing with an open cowling. After lifting off, the airplane initiated a left turn and subsequently stalled. The witness lost visual contact when the airplane descended below a tree line. The airplane then collided with terrain approximately 250 yards southwest of runway 4L.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane after the accident revealed that the attachment fittings for the cowling on the right side were unlatched and showed no damage. The left attachment fittings for the cowling were latched and deformed.
What happened in the 20 Oct 2003 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Mesa, AZ?
An airplane stalled and collided with terrain during an attempted return to the runway after the pilot reported a loose panel. Witness saw aircraft depart with an open cowling.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Oct 2003 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N9338W, at Mesa, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's failure to maintain an adequate airspeed, which resulted in an inadvertent stall. Also causal, was the pilot's inadequate preflight and failure to secure the right side of the engine cowling prior to departure.
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