On January 31, 1992, a Piper PA-31 Cheyenne (registration N6038A) operated by Thomas J. Testa was involved in an aviation accident near Toledo-Express, United States of America during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of aircraft control for an undetermined reason. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An airplane departed runway 25 in daylight IMC with light snow and fog. Radar contact was lost shortly after takeoff. The aircraft impacted wooded terrain about two miles from the runway in a steep nose-down, left-wing-low attitude. All three occupants were killed. No mechanical malfunction was found.
Accident Overview
On a day with light snow and fog, a pilot made routine radio communications in preparation for takeoff. The airplane departed from runway 25 in daylight instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Shortly after takeoff, the airplane's radar target disappeared from the controller's scope.
Crash Location and Impact
The airplane crashed on wooded terrain approximately two miles south-southwest of the departure end of runway 25. Impact occurred in a steep, nose-down, left-wing-low attitude. The airplane was destroyed by ground impact forces and a subsequent post-impact fire.
Pilot and Mechanical Factors
No physical incapacitation of the pilot-in-command was determined. Investigators discovered no contributory mechanical malfunctions of the airplane.
Occupants
All three occupants were killed in the accident.
Probable cause
Loss of aircraft control for an undetermined reason.