Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-22-108 near Westminster, MD — 2026-06-05

Final reportERA26LA240
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Date
2026-06-05
Location
Westminster, MD, USA
Airport
DMW
Aircraft
PIPER PA-22-108
Registration
N5081Z
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with terrain.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, shortly after rotation during takeoff the airplane suddenly turned to the left and departed the runway. The pilot immediately reduced engine power and attempted to steer the airplane toward an open field. The right wingtip subsequently struck a wall of terrain adjacent to the runway and the right wing sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. Additionally, a postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies of the flight control system.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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