Probable cause: The noninstrument-rated pilot’s improper decision to continue visual flight rules flight into instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.
Plane destroyed after hitting truck on runway
Probable cause: The pilot’s inability to avoid a collision with an unauthorized vehicle on the runway during the landing roll and the truck driver’s decision to cross the runway in front of the airplane.
Plane crashes after CFI and student wrestle over controls
Probable cause: The flight instructor’s failure to perform a go-around during final approach, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and a hard landing. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor’s failure to brief the student pilot on the positive transfer of aircraft control during preflight.
Leaking fuel cap leads to fuel exhaustion
Probable cause: The pilot’s improper decision to take off with a known fuel leak, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.
Piper pilot runs over his friend
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain a safe distance between the airplane and a person on the ground, which resulted in serious injuries to the person.
Piper hits barn after thwarted takeoff
Probable cause: The pilot’s decision to continue to attempt to take off despite the airplane’s inability to attain a positive climb rate, which resulted in little runway remaining, and his subsequent decision to turn off the runway, whic
Incorrectly installed wings contribute to accident
Probable cause: The pilot’s difficulty controlling the airplane due to his incorrect reinstallation of the wings, which led to a bounced precautionary landing. Contributing to the accident was the failure of the pilot and the mechanic to veri
Window blows open during takeoff
Probable cause: The student pilot’s decision to attempt to close the cockpit window during takeoff and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control.
Plane hits helicopter during takeoff
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll with gusting wind conditions.