Runway excursion and aircraft damage during takeoff attempt

No fatalities • Port Orange-Spruce Creek, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a wing strike and subsequent stall during a takeoff attempt, resulting in a runway excursion and significant structural damage.

What happened

During an attempt to take off, the aircraft's right wing made contact with the runway surface. Following this initial contact, the pilot applied excessive back pressure on the control yoke, causing the aircraft to pitch upward into a stall. After the stall, the plane descended back onto the runway surface.

The momentum of the aircraft carried it beyond the end of the runway, where it collided with trees. The impact caused the aircraft to come to rest on its side. The wreckage sustained significant damage, including the separation of both wings and substantial damage to the fuselage.

Findings

An investigation conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector found no evidence of mechanical malfunctions occurring prior to the impact. The pilot did not report any mechanical issues, and the inspection of the wreckage confirmed that no pre-impact failures contributed to the event. The primary factor in the accident was the pilot's decision to continue the takeoff after the initial wing strike rather than rejecting the takeoff attempt.

Probable cause

The pilot's excessive use of back pressure on the yoke following a wing strike caused the aircraft to stall and subsequently exit the runway.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2023-02-02 Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) accident near Port Orange-Spruce Creek, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced a wing strike and subsequent stall during a takeoff attempt, resulting in a runway excursion and significant structural damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 2023-02-02 Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2023-02-02 involved a Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class), registration N864JB, operated by Steven W. Smith, at Port Orange-Spruce Creek, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's excessive use of back pressure on the yoke following a wing strike caused the aircraft to stall and subsequently exit the runway.

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