Accident Overview
On February 19, 2014, at about 1415 eastern standard time, a Piper J3C-65, registration N9026N, operated by a private individual, was substantially damaged when it collided with terrain following a loss of control while maneuvering at low altitude over Macon Downtown Airport (MAC), Macon, Georgia. The airline transport pilot and passenger were seriously injured. The personal flight was conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 in visual meteorological conditions; no flight plan was filed.
Witness Observations
Two witnesses standing near a hangar at the airport watched the airplane perform touch-and-go landings. They reported that the airplane lifted off about halfway down runway 28 and began a right turn to a crosswind leg of the airport traffic pattern at about 100 feet above ground level (agl). As the airplane initiated the right turn, a gust of wind struck it. One witness stated that the gust increased the bank angle from approximately 30 degrees to 90 degrees and slowed the forward speed. The airplane then stalled, rolled right, and descended uncontrolled into a grassy area adjacent to the runway.
Aircraft Examination
An FAA inspector examined the wreckage and found no preimpact mechanical malfunctions. Flight control continuity was confirmed from the cockpit controls to the respective control surfaces. The propeller could be rotated about 90 degrees, but impact damage to the cylinders prevented a full 360-degree rotation. Although the fuel tank was compromised, evidence of fuel was observed at the accident site.
Weather Conditions
The recorded weather at Middle Georgia Regional Airport (MCN), about 8 miles southwest of the accident site, at 1353 included wind from 280 degrees at 11 knots, gusting to 20 knots; a broken ceiling at 3,300 feet; and visibility 10 miles.
Traffic Pattern Considerations
The FAA Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3A) states that after takeoff, a pilot should continue climbing straight ahead and, if remaining in the traffic pattern, commence a turn to the crosswind leg beyond the departure end of the runway within 300 feet of pattern altitude. Traffic pattern altitudes are usually 1,000 feet agl.