On July 11, 1981, a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (registration N7318L) operated by Ralph Lowry Aircraft Sales was involved in an aviation accident near Wilmington-New Hanover County, United States of America during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Stall on approach after the pilot continued flight into known areas of severe turbulences. Contributing factors: the pilot failed to maintain flying speed, low ceiling, rain, fog, unfavorable wind conditions, turbulence associated with clouds and… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A pilot flying solo from Fayetteville to Wilmington lost control in severe turbulence and stalled while descending for a VOR approach to runway 34. The aircraft was destroyed and the pilot died.
Accident Details
The pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, departed Fayetteville, North Carolina, on a flight to Wilmington to demonstrate the airplane to potential customers. After receiving clearance to conduct a VOR approach to runway 34, the pilot began the descent in deteriorating weather conditions that included thunderstorm activity. While in severe turbulence, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The airplane stalled and subsequently crashed in a field. The crash destroyed the aircraft and killed the pilot.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be a stall on approach after the pilot continued flight into known areas of severe turbulence. The following contributing factors were reported: the pilot failed to maintain flying speed; low ceiling; rain; fog; unfavorable wind conditions; turbulence associated with clouds and thunderstorms; thunderstorm activity; visibility of 3/4 of a mile or less; lightning in the vicinity of the accident; and wind gusting to 27 knots.
What happened in the 11 Jul 1981 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident near Wilmington-New Hanover County, United States of America?
A pilot flying solo from Fayetteville to Wilmington lost control in severe turbulence and stalled while descending for a VOR approach to runway 34. The aircraft was destroyed and the pilot died.
Were there any fatalities in the 11 Jul 1981 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Jul 1981 involved a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo, registration N7318L, operated by Ralph Lowry Aircraft Sales, at Wilmington-New Hanover County, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Stall on approach after the pilot continued flight into known areas of severe turbulences. Contributing factors: the pilot failed to maintain flying speed, low ceiling, rain, fog, unfavorable wind conditions, turbulence associated with clouds and thunderstorms, thunderstorm activity, visibility 3/4 of a mile or less,…
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