Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-25-260 near St. Petersburg, FL — 2014-08-31

Final reportERA14FA416
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Date
2014-08-31
Location
St. Petersburg, FL, USA
Airport
SPG
Aircraft
PIPER PA-25-260
Registration
N254AB
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The pilot's improper deployment of the banner-tow hook, which resulted in it becoming entangled between the left elevator and horizontal stabilizer, restricted the movement of the elevator, and led to a loss of airplane control.

NTSB narrative

During a banner-tow pickup, the commercial pilot reported to the tower controller that the banner-tow rope had become entangled in the rudder and that he needed to release the rope. According to witnesses, after picking up the banner, the airplane made a sharp left turn and then spiraled into the water. Examination of the wreckage revealed that the banner-tow rope had become entangled between the left elevator and horizontal stabilizer. A review of the company training manual noted that the banner-tow rope must remain taught before the pilot deploys the hook or the rope to prevent the entanglement of the hook or rope in the tail control surfaces and restriction of movement. A review of GPS data showed that the airplane made an immediate right turn to pick up the banner while the pilot was deploying the hook. It is likely that the pilot's improper deployment of the hook while simultaneously turning the airplane caused the entanglement of the tow rope in the elevator.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have ensured the hook was clear before attempting to pick up the banner.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • ATC audio
  • ADS-B / radar
  • Photos
  • 11 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents11

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