Colorado Aviation Accidents & Incidents

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2310 Total Accidents 425 Fatal 816 Fatalities 1982-2026
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Colorado Springs, Colorado

October 15, 2019 · NTSB GAA20CA014 · Piper PA38 (N9708T)
Minor/None
Note: This analysis may be based on NTSB preliminary reports, which represent an initial, incomplete investigation. Facts can change as the investigation progresses, and preliminary findings should not be assumed to be accurate or final. For older events, a final NTSB report may have been issued β€” always consult the NTSB Aviation Query for the authoritative record.

NTSB Narrative

The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff the airplane drifted left off runway heading. He attempted to correct, but the airplane continued to drift left, impacted a fence and came to rest in a horse corral.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The airport's automated weather observation station reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was 220Β° at 10 knots, gusting to 18 knots. The pilot reported that, about the time of the accident the wind was 330Β° at 11 knots. The airplane was departing from runway 08. The pilot's failure to maintain the runway heading while taking off with a gusting tailwind, which resulted in impact with a fence.

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NTSB Findings

  • Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Heading/course-Not attained/maintained - C
  • Personnel issues-Task performance-Use of equip/info-Aircraft control-Pilot - C
  • Environmental issues-Conditions/weather/phenomena-Wind-Tailwind-Effect on operation - C
  • Environmental issues-Conditions/weather/phenomena-Wind-Gusts-Effect on operation - C

Details

NTSB ReportGAA20CA014
AircraftPiper PA38
RegistrationN9708T
DamageSUBS
FAR Part091
Location38.9428, -104.5700
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