On June 23, 2006, a Piper PA-25-235 (registration N7788Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Opa-locka, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the pilot-in-command to maintain airspeed resulting in an inadvertent stall, uncontrolled descent, and in-flight collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced a stall and spin during a steep turn after an intersection takeoff while attempting to return for banner pickup; the airplane impacted the ground and caught fire.
Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that after an intersection takeoff, he initiated a steep right turn with the intention of returning to pick up a banner. Approximately halfway through the turn, the airplane stalled and the right wing dropped. The pilot attempted to recover, and when the flight was approximately 60 feet above ground level, he had stopped the spin and the wings were level. The airplane then impacted the ground in a slightly nose-high attitude, caught fire immediately, and slid to a stop.
Examination Findings
The pilot stated that prior to the accident, there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions of the airplane or any of its systems. Post-accident examination of the flight controls revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction. The engine and engine controls sustained heat damage that precluded an engine run; however, examination of the engine revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction.