Register

Nov. 17, Ontario, Ore. / Piper Tri-Pacer

At 13:18 mountain time, a Piper PA-22-135 experienced an in-flight breakup shortly after takeoff from Ontario Airport. The pilot was killed. Investigators said the left side forward wing lift strut separated from the aircraft in flight and the wing tip section outboard of the lift strut attachment folded up. The aircraft then descended to an open field and was consumed by fire....

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A Piper PA-22-135 experienced an in-flight breakup shortly after takeoff from Ontario Airport, resulting in the pilot's death and the aircraft being consumed by fire.
  • Investigators determined the cause was the separation of the left side forward wing lift strut, leading to the wing tip section folding up.
See a mistake? Contact us.

At 13:18 mountain time, a Piper PA-22-135 experienced an in-flight breakup shortly after takeoff from Ontario Airport. The pilot was killed. Investigators said the left side forward wing lift strut separated from the aircraft in flight and the wing tip section outboard of the lift strut attachment folded up. The aircraft then descended to an open field and was consumed by fire.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE