Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28R-180 near Scotia, NY — 2009-06-14

Final reportERA09FA345
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Date
2009-06-14
Location
Scotia, NY, USA
Airport
K13
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28R-180
Registration
N3226R
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
3
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

The flight instructor's failure to ensure that the airplane was properly configured for a short field takeoff, and his decision to not abort the takeoff.

NTSB narrative

The flight instructor and student pilot were taking off from a 1,840-foot long grass runway located next to a river. The instructor and student pilot did not extend the flaps to 25 degrees as required by the Owner’s Handbook for takeoff from a soft surface runway. Witnesses stated that the airplane became airborne two times on the takeoff roll. A witness further stated, "He continued to roll further pulling the airplane into the air for a third time." The airplane lifted off the runway, settled into the river, and sank. The manufacturer's performance charts based on the weather conditions at the accident site revealed the ground run required for takeoff on a hard surface, without flaps extended, is about 1,350 feet. Takeoff from a grassy surface would require a significantly longer distance. Examination of the airframe, flight controls, engine assembly, and accessories revealed no evidence of a precrash mechanical failure or malfunction. The landing gear was found extended at the accident site. After some preparation, the engine was started, warmed up, advanced to full power, run continuously without hesitation, and subsequently shut down.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted takeoff after initial unsuccessful attempts.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents34

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