On May 11, 2004, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N7123R) was involved in an aviation accident near Cortland, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudgment of distance/altitude and his failure to maintain obstacle clearance which resulted in an undershoot and collision with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Witnesses reported an airplane flying low clipped a tree with its right wing, spun right, and crashed on a golf course 600 feet from runway 13. No anomalies found in flight controls or engine.
Accident Details
According to witnesses, the airplane was observed flying low toward the airport when the right wing contacted a tree. The airplane subsequently spun to the right and impacted the ground. No radio transmissions from the pilot were received before the accident.
Wreckage Examination
The wreckage came to rest on a golf course in a nose-down attitude, approximately 600 feet from the approach end of runway 13. Examination of the wreckage site revealed that the engine compartment was crushed aft toward the firewall and displaced to the left. The leading edge of the right wing tip was crushed, and the left wing assembly was buckled.
Systems Inspection
Inspection of the flight controls and power plant revealed no anomalies. The pilot had not reported any mechanical or flight control anomalies prior to the accident.
What happened in the 11 May 2004 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Cortland, AL?
Witnesses reported an airplane flying low clipped a tree with its right wing, spun right, and crashed on a golf course 600 feet from runway 13. No anomalies found in flight controls or engine.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 May 2004 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N7123R, at Cortland, AL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's misjudgment of distance/altitude and his failure to maintain obstacle clearance which resulted in an undershoot and collision with trees.
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