Aircraft collision with wire fence following airspeed decay at McCall Airport

Casualties unknown • Mccall, ID, US

A pilot experienced a rapid loss of airspeed during the climb phase after takeoff from McCall Airport, leading to an emergency landing into a wire fence.

What happened

During takeoff from McCall Airport, located in mountainous terrain at an elevation of 5,021 feet, the pilot reported that the initial acceleration was normal. After departing, the pilot lowered the nose to accelerate to the best angle of climb while remaining within ground effect. As the aircraft began its climb after reaching this angle, the airspeed decayed rapidly.

In response to the loss of airspeed, the pilot lowered the nose and turned the Cessna (type not specified in source) toward a crosswind and lower terrain. The pilot subsequently landed on the ground but struck a wire fence. The impact with the fence caused the aircraft to nose over, resulting in substantial damage.

At 1650, the METAR for McCall reported winds from 260 degrees at 7 knots, visibility of 10 statute miles, a temperature of 22 degrees Celsius, and an altimeter setting of 30.14 inches.

Probable cause

The pilot attempted to climb after takeoff, but a rapid decay in airspeed necessitated a turn toward lower terrain, ultimately leading to a collision with a wire fence and a subsequent nose-over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-09-05 Piper PA-22 (20) accident near Mccall, ID?

A pilot experienced a rapid loss of airspeed during the climb phase after takeoff from McCall Airport, leading to an emergency landing into a wire fence.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-09-05 involved a Piper PA-22 (20), registration N8276C, operated by Michael S. Weiss, at Mccall, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot attempted to climb after takeoff, but a rapid decay in airspeed necessitated a turn toward lower terrain, ultimately leading to a collision with a wire fence and a subsequent nose-over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20051006X01587. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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