Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
the pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff, and his failure to maintain directional control of the airplane on takeoff. A factor in the accident was the tall grass.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
On June 3, 1995, at 1353 central daylight time, a Piper PA-25- 235, N4428P, was substantially damaged while attempting to take off from a private field in Dawson, Minnesota. The commercial pilot reported no injuries. The 14 CFR Part 137 flight was en route to Madison, Minnesota. The aerial application flight operated in visual meteorological conditions without a flight plan.
The pilot reported he landed the airplane at Dawson Airport on the grass adjacent to the runway because of the runway's poor condition. After picking up some chemicals, the pilot stated he proceeded to takeoff on the grass. While the airplane was on its initial ground run, the right spray boom encountered tall grass and the pilot lost directional control of the airplane. The right wing and propeller contacted the ground and the landing gear was damaged.
The Dawson Airport had been closed for several years prior to this accident. There had been no upkeep done to the airport since its closure.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CHI95LA172