Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA28 near Somerset, KY — 2023-04-08

Final reportERA23LA199
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Date
2023-04-08
Location
Somerset, KY, USA
Airport
SME
Aircraft
PIPER PA28
Registration
N2448R
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane during the takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with an airport navigation antenna.

NTSB narrative

The solo student pilot was taking off in gusting wind and described that shortly after rotation, he saw the stall warning light illuminate. He reported that although the engine was developing full power and he leveled off to regain airspeed, the airplane settled back onto the runway and “pulled left.” Despite the pilot’s attempt to keep the airplane on the runway, it departed the runway, impacted an instrument landing system antenna, crossed a taxiway, and then came to rest. The left wing was substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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