On February 22, 1977, a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (registration N9145Y) operated by B-Z Leasing was involved in an aviation accident near Springdale, United States of America in flight. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Airframe failure in flight due to improper maintenance and inspection of aircraft. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A twin-engine airplane suffered an inflight airframe failure after entering turbulence, crashed into a prairie, and all five occupants were killed. Investigators determined the probable cause was improper maintenance and inspection, with several contributing factors.
Accident
While cruising at altitude, a twin-engine airplane entered an area of turbulence. During the encounter, the airframe failed in flight. The airplane subsequently entered a dive and crashed into a prairie. The accident resulted in the deaths of all five occupants.
Investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and maintenance records. The investigation identified multiple issues contributing to the structural failure.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official probable cause was airframe failure in flight due to improper maintenance and inspection of the aircraft. Contributing factors reported included:
- Failure of the flight control surfaces (elevator assembly and attachments)
- Flutter
- Incorrect weather forecast
- Turbulence in flight (clear air)
- Separation in flight
- Elevator not rebalanced after repainting
- Rivet-nut improperly installed
- Turbulence not forecasted
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 22 Feb 1977 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident near Springdale, United States of America?
A twin-engine airplane suffered an inflight airframe failure after entering turbulence, crashed into a prairie, and all five occupants were killed. Investigators determined the probable cause was improper maintenance and inspection, with several contributing factors.
Were there any fatalities in the 22 Feb 1977 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Feb 1977 involved a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo, registration N9145Y, operated by B-Z Leasing, at Springdale, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Airframe failure in flight due to improper maintenance and inspection of aircraft.