On May 23, 2014, a PIPER PA 22 UNDESIGNAT operated by John Bake was involved in an aviation accident near Roundup, MT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's delayed action to abort the takeoff. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's inadequate preflight planning and a high density altitude. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff from a 1,200-foot turf airstrip, the pilot reported the airplane accelerated beyond his anticipated rotation speed, remained groundborne, and overran the runway, striking trees. The pilot cited unseasonably warm temperatures for degraded performance.
Accident Details
The pilot reported that during takeoff from a 1,200-foot long turf airstrip, the airplane accelerated beyond a speed he anticipated for rotation and remained on the ground. Despite an attempt to abort the takeoff and stop, the airplane overran the departure end of the runway and struck multiple trees before coming to rest upright. The fuselage and both wings sustained substantial damage.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that at the time of the accident, unseasonably warm temperatures caused a degradation of the airplane's performance that was significantly greater than he had anticipated. He reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings. The airplane came to rest upright after colliding with trees beyond the runway end.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 23 May 2014 PIPER PA 22 UNDESIGNAT accident near Roundup, MT?
During takeoff from a 1,200-foot turf airstrip, the pilot reported the airplane accelerated beyond his anticipated rotation speed, remained groundborne, and overran the runway, striking trees. The pilot cited unseasonably warm temperatures for degraded performance.
Were there any fatalities in the 23 May 2014 PIPER PA 22 UNDESIGNAT accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 May 2014 involved a PIPER PA 22 UNDESIGNAT, operated by John Bake, at Roundup, MT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's delayed action to abort the takeoff. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's inadequate preflight planning and a high density altitude.