Aircraft impact during takeoff at fly-in event

Casualties unknown • Mesa, AZ, US

An aircraft experienced a departure stall during its initial climb following a takeoff, resulting in a ground impact at an airport fly-in.

What happened

On the day of the accident, an aircraft was participating in a fly-in event at the airport. The pilot had placed the aircraft on static display and intended to provide rides for a fee. During the first flight of the day, which included one passenger, the aircraft took off after a short ground run.

Witnesses observed the aircraft lift off at a steep pitch angle. Approximately 100 feet above the ground, the aircraft began a left turn as the nose and left wing dropped. The aircraft rotated 180 degrees from its original takeoff direction and impacted the ground. The aircraft came to rest underneath the wing of another parked airplane. There were no fatalities reported in the accident.

The investigation

An inspection of the airframe and engine was conducted following the impact. No mechanical anomalies were identified that would have prevented normal operation of the aircraft.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered a departure stall during the initial climb phase of takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-11-06 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Mesa, AZ?

An aircraft experienced a departure stall during its initial climb following a takeoff, resulting in a ground impact at an airport fly-in.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-11-06 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N6854P, at Mesa, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered a departure stall during the initial climb phase of takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20041116X01821. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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