N98117

On June 26, 2000, at 1115 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-28-140, N98117, collided with the terrain following a loss of control during initial takeoff climb at the Grant Airstrip, Grant, Michigan. The takeoff was being performed on runway 27 (2,517' x 120', grass). The pilot and two passengers received minor injuries. The airplane was substantially damaged. The 14 CFR Part 91 flight was operating in visual meteorological conditions and a VFR flight plan was filed. The flight was originating at the time of the accident with a destination of Rollo, Missouri.

The airstrip being used for takeoff was bordered by trees on the north and west sides. The pilot reported the winds were from 210 degrees at 15 knots gusting to 20 knots. He stated that on takeoff he encountered turbulence from the left quartering headwind. The pilot reported that at an altitude of 150 to 200 feet above the ground, the right wing "dipped severely down (on knife edge)." He stated that he corrected the attitude, but the airplane started to buffet. The pilot reported that in order to avoid going into the wooded area, he banked the airplane to the left to fly over a corn field with a headwind; however, the airplane continued to descend. The pilot reported the airplane descended until it contacted the terrain in the corn field. He stated that just after touch down the nose gear contacted a "large rock" and the airplane spun around prior to coming to rest.

Post accident inspection of the airplane revealed damage to both wings, the firewall and engine mounts. In addition, the nose gear and right main gear were separated from the airplane.