NTSB Reports

After maneuvering away from the airport, the Piper returned and executed a touch-and-go landing. Radar data indicate the airplane climbed to 900 feet msl at 80 knots of groundspeed before radar contact was lost. Witnesses observed the airplane flying normally, then saw the left wing separate from the fuselage, which impacted a field. Preliminary examination revealed the left wing main spar exhibited cracks from metal fatigue extending through more than 80 percent of the lower spar cap, and portions of the forward and aft spar web doublers. The right wing also exhibited fatigue cracks in the lower spar cap at the same hole location extending up to 0.047-inch deep. The 2007 airplane had accumulated 7690 flight hours since new. Weather at 0953 included wind from 260 degrees at seven knots, 10 statute miles of visibility and few clouds at 25,000 feet.

Key Takeaways:

• Multiple accidents involved mechanical failures, including a catastrophic engine failure in a commercial airliner, an in-flight breakup due to fatigue cracks, and repeated engine power loss in general aviation aircraft.
• Adverse weather conditions (e.g., IMC, icing, fog) were a significant factor in several fatal accidents, often coupled with pilot decision-making issues or the lack of proper IFR clearances.
• Operational errors, such as runway/taxiway collisions, loss of control during takeoff, and autopilot malfunctions, also contributed to various incidents, some resulting in fatalities.

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