Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot in command's failure to maintain aircraft control.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During the takeoff roll the pilot allowed the aircraft's left wing to strike the ground. The aircraft then impacted the ground and slid backwards into brush along the runway's east edge. The pilot reported calm winds at the time of the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
On October 3, 1993, at approximately 1245 hours Pacific daylight time (PDT), a Piper PA-12, N7709H, registered to and being flown by Herman M. Nirschl, a certificated commercial pilot, sustained substantial damage when the aircraft's left wingtip struck the ground during takeoff at the Pierce County Airport, Orting, Washington. The pilot and his passenger were uninjured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed for the local flight. The flight, which was personal in nature, was to have been operated in accordance with the requirements set forth in 14CFR91. The pilot reported that during takeoff the left wing began to drop followed by a left drift off the runway which he was unable to counteract. The aircraft's left wingtip struck the ground and the aircraft spun around 180 degrees proceeding into brush while travelling backwards. The pilot reported no powerplant or control malfunction at the time of the accident. He also reported that the winds were calm at the time. -