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January 9, 2024 · Piper J3C 65 · N1401V

Park Rapids, MN

Overview

Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
January 9, 2024
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Park Rapids, MN
Aircraft
Piper J3C 65 (1943)
Tail Number
N1401V
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN24LA087

The pilot reported that he completed a full preflight inspection of the airplane with no issues noted, including inspecting all the flight control surfaces. During the run-up, the pilot checked all the flight controls and he noted they “all checked perfect.” The pilot was operating at a remote airport that was surrounded by pine trees, about 90 ft tall, on all sides. The takeoff roll from the snow-covered runway was “normal” and about 150 ft agl, the airplane “started turning/pulling left” in a descending turn. The pilot attempted to correct the turn and descent to no avail. The pilot decided to continue to use engine power until the airplane impacted trees. The airplane impacted several trees and came to rest nose down. The pilot was able to egress from the airplane without further incident. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and the engine mount. The pilot reported there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or the engine that would have precluded normal operation. A postaccident examination of the airframe established flight control continuity.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control and terrain clearance during initial climb, that resulted in an impact with trees and terrain.

Full Narrative

The pilot reported that he completed a full preflight inspection of the airplane with no issues noted, including inspecting all the flight control surfaces. During the run-up, the pilot checked all the flight controls and he noted they “all checked perfect.” The pilot was operating at a remote airport that was surrounded by pine trees, about 90 ft tall, on all sides. The takeoff roll from the snow-covered runway was “normal” and about 150 ft agl, the airplane “started turning/pulling left” in a descending turn. The pilot attempted to correct the turn and descent to no avail. The pilot decided to continue to use engine power until the airplane impacted trees. The airplane impacted several trees and came to rest nose down. The pilot was able to egress from the airplane without further incident. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and the engine mount. The pilot reported there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or the engine that would have precluded normal operation. A postaccident examination of the airframe established flight control continuity.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time15:35 CST
Nearest AirportSky Manor Aero Estates (0nm ESE)
Runway13/3
Runway Length1999 ft
Runway Width80 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftPiper J3C 65
Tail NumberN1401V
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsContinental Motors · C-85-12F · Reciprocating · 65
Seats2

People & Injuries

Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 50 · Third Class · None

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind20° @ 3 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point18 F / 12 F
Altimeter29.57 inHg
Observation Time15:22
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data