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NTSB Report
June 26, 2023 · Piper J3C-50 · N23161
Elbert, CO
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
June 26, 2023
Injury Outcomes
1 injury (1 minor injury)
Location
Elbert, CO
Aircraft
Piper J3C-50 (1939)
Tail Number
N23161
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN23LA277
The pilot reported that, as the tail lifted during takeoff, the airplane veered left. He attempted to correct with full right rudder and full brakes. However, the airplane subsequently nosed over resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage, lift struts, rudder, and vertical stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. At about the time of the accident, wind was from 180° at 5 knots. The pilot decided to depart on runway 35 due to the prevailing airport traffic. He stated that departing with “more favorable wind conditions” may have prevented the accident.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's loss of directional control during takeoff and subsequent excessive use of brakes which resulted in a nose-over. Contributing to the accident was his decision to takeoff downwind.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that, as the tail lifted during takeoff, the airplane veered left. He attempted to correct with full right rudder and full brakes. However, the airplane subsequently nosed over resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage, lift struts, rudder, and vertical stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. At about the time of the accident, wind was from 180° at 5 knots. The pilot decided to depart on runway 35 due to the prevailing airport traffic. He stated that departing with “more favorable wind conditions” may have prevented the accident.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time11:00 MDT
Nearest AirportKelly Air Park (0nm N)
Runway35
Runway Length3500 ft
Runway Width36 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftPiper J3C-50
Tail NumberN23161
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsContinental · C85-8F · Reciprocating · 85
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury Summary1 injury (1 minor injury)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor1
Uninjured0
Total1
Crew 1Age 65 · Sprt · Minor
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind180° @ 5 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point41 F
Altimeter30.19 inHg
Observation Time10:55
Weather SourceWFAC