Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot prematurely lifted off during the takeoff with inadequate airspeed which resulted in the airplane stalling. Factors associated with the accident were there unsuitable/rough terrain that the pilot used for takeoff.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
On October 8, 2003, at 1400 eastern standard time, a Piper J-3, N71027, collided with terrain following a loss of control on takeoff from a hay field in Florence, Indiana. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The airplane was substantially damaged. The 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight was operating in visual meteorological conditions without a flight plan. The flight was originating at the time of the accident with an intended destination of Madison, Indiana, for fuel before continuing on to Bloomington, Indiana.
The pilot reported that during the takeoff he encountered an area in the field where the terrain was "very rough." He stated that the airplane was "bouncing and shaking" and he wanted to get it off the ground as soon as he could. He reported that he pulled back on the stick and the airplane became airborne, but after passing over hay bales and a fence, he was unable to "keep it in the air." He reported that the right wing dropped and contacted the ground. The airplane then spun to the left and came to rest on top of another fence.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CHI04LA006