Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-25-235 near Tyler, MN — 2023-07-28

Final reportCEN23LA335
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Date
2023-07-28
Location
Tyler, MN, USA
Airport
63Y
Aircraft
PIPER PA-25-235
Registration
N7094Z
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper flap position during takeoff, which resulted in degraded climb performance and a collision with terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot attempted the takeoff with the flaps in the half or first notch position. Unable to rotate during the takeoff roll, the pilot selected the full flap position, and the agricultural airplane lifted off the 2,500-ft long turf airstrip about 150 feet before the end of the runway. The airplane was unable to climb out of ground effect and contacted corn stalks that were located past the end of the runway. The airplane descended into the vegetation and came to rest nose down and upright. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. According to the airplane owner’s handbook, a takeoff distance of about 1,370 feet was required to clear a 50-foot obstacle with the sprayer configuration. The handbook recommended that the wing flaps be retracted at all times during takeoff.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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