Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The instrument-rated pilot's failure to maintain runway alignment by instruments after encountering fog during the initial climb. A factor was the foggy weather conditions.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
According to the instrument-rated private pilot, he was attempting an early morning, short-field takeoff from a turf airstrip in a Piper PA-28RT-201. During the take-off roll, "mist blew into the departure end of the runway." The pilot continued the takeoff, and about 50 feet above the ground, the airplane impacted trees off the left side of the runway and flipped over. A fire department photograph, taken upon arrival at the airstrip, revealed the presence of fog about half way down the runway. The airstrip was 2,200 feet long and 100 feet wide, with trees on both sides.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# NYC07CA137