Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary CEN11CA477

Minot, ND, USA

Aircraft #1

N7709Z

PIPER PA-25-235

Analysis

The pilot reported that he was departing from a gravel township road for an aerial application flight. During takeoff, he lowered the left wing to compensate for a crosswind. The left spray boom hit a buildup of dirt that was concealed by tall grass on the side of the road. This resulted in the airplane veering off the left side of the road and into a ditch which caused substantial damage to the wing and fuselage. The pilot reported that there was no mechanical malfunction or failure of the airplane.

Factual Information

The pilot reported that he was departing from a gravel township road. He lowered the left wing during the takeoff roll due to a crosswind. The left spray boom hit a buildup of dirt that was concealed by tall grass on the side of the road. The airplane veered off the left side of the road and into the ditch which resulted in substantial damage to the wing and fuselage. The pilot reported that there was no mechanical malfunction or failure of the airplane.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's inadequate inspection of the takeoff area which resulted in a collision with terrain and the subsequent loss of control during takeoff.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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