Stall and spin during banner tow maneuver

Casualties unknown • Opa-locka, FL, US

A pilot experienced a wing drop and stall while performing a steep turn to pick up a banner, resulting in an aircraft impact and fire.

What happened

During an intersection takeoff, the pilot initiated a steep right turn intended to return to a banner. Approximately halfway through this maneuver, the aircraft stalled and the right wing dropped. The pilot attempted to recover from the resulting condition. Although the spin was stopped and the wings were leveled at approximately 60 feet above ground level, the aircraft impacted the ground in a slightly nose-high attitude. The impact caused the aircraft to catch fire immediately before sliding to a stop.

The investigation

Post-accident examination of the flight controls showed no evidence of any failure or malfunction prior to the impact. While heat damage to the engine and engine controls prevented an engine run, an examination of the engine revealed no evidence of pre-impact failure or malfunction. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions involving the aircraft or its systems prior to the accident.

Probable cause

the airplane stalled during a steep turn while attempting to pick up a banner

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2006-06-23 Piper PA-25-235 accident near Opa-locka, FL?

A pilot experienced a wing drop and stall while performing a steep turn to pick up a banner, resulting in an aircraft impact and fire.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2006-06-23 involved a Piper PA-25-235, registration N7788Z, at Opa-locka, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the airplane stalled during a steep turn while attempting to pick up a banner

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060915X01349. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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