PIPER J3C-65 near Rosedale, MS — 2008-06-28

Probable cause

The failure of the pilots to maintain airspeed following a reported partial loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

According to the owner of the airplane, two certificated flight instructors took the airplane out for the purpose of getting one of the pilots a tail wheel endorsement. The owner stated that while they were on approach to the private grass strip the engine lost power due to carburetor ice, they applied carburetor heat but inadvertently stalled the airplane which “mushed” and impacted the ground substantially damaging the airframe, and separating both main landing gear. He stated that neither pilot was injured. Neither the FAA inspector nor the NTSB Investigator-in-charge were able to speak with the pilot's directly. However, the FAA Inspector was able to speak to their attorney. According to the inspector neither pilot would admit who was the pilot in command at the time of the accident.

NTSB coding

• Aerodynamic stall/spin · Emergency descent

Evidence available

• Photos
• 4 docket documents

Docket documents4

• Other Pertinent Forms and Reports, airplanes annual inspection write up.form
• Reports from Federal Agencies, Inspectors Statement.interview
• Witness Statement, record of telephone conversation with owner.interview
• Photo Owners photographs of damage.photos

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