# NTSB ERA11FA291: Piper PA-28-180, N5275L, New Hampton, NY, May 9, 2011

- Type: NTSB accident investigation
- Classification: Accident · Fatal · Field investigation · Final report
- Date: May 9, 2011, 14:48 local (18:48 UTC)
- Place: New Hampton, NY
- Coordinates: 41.390556, -74.419723
- Nearby events: https://openairdocs.org/map.md?lat=41.3906&lon=-74.4197&mi=10
- Phase of flight: [Enroute](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-phases/400) (OpenAirDocs' grouping)
- Defining events: [Enroute-cruise: Midair collision](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/250); [Enroute-cruise: Midair collision](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/250)
- Highest injury: Fatal
- Injuries: 2 fatal
- Status: Completed, report August 7, 2012
- Report: Approved by Office Director
- NTSB office: Eastern Region Aviation
- Parties: FAA/FSDO, Piper
- NTSB case key (mKey): 79059
- NTSB case page: https://web.ntsb.gov/investigations/?ntsbnumber=ERA11FA291
- NTSB report (PDF, downloads): https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-repgen/api/Aviation/ReportMain/GenerateNewestReport/79059/pdf
- NTSB docket: https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket?ProjectID=79059
- Page: https://openairdocs.org/ntsb/ERA11FA291

## Probable cause (aircraft 2)

The PA24 pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from the PA28, resulting in an in-flight collision. Contributing to the accident was the PA24 pilot's decision to overtake the PA28.

## Probable cause (aircraft 1)

The failure of the PA24 pilot to maintain adequate clearance from the PA28 resulting in an inflight collision. Contributing to the accident was the PA24 pilot's decision to overtake the PA28.

## Findings

NTSB's coded findings; those marked are part of the probable cause.

- [Personnel issues](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02060000): Personnel issues › Task performance · Pilot of other aircraft (probable cause), aircraft 1; cases with it: [Piper PA-28-180, 2 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02060000/cases.md?model=7102808), [All aircraft, 137 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02060000/cases.md)
- [Info processing/decision: decision making/judgment](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02041520): Personnel issues › Action/decision · Pilot of other aircraft (probable cause), aircraft 1; cases with it: [Piper PA-28-180, 25 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02041520/cases.md?model=7102808), [All aircraft, 3,098 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02041520/cases.md)
- [Info processing/decision: decision making/judgment](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02041520): Personnel issues › Action/decision · Pilot (probable cause), aircraft 2; cases with it: [Piper PA-24-250, 7 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02041520/cases.md?model=7102404), [All aircraft, 3,098 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02041520/cases.md)
- [Personnel issues](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02060000): Personnel issues › Task performance · Pilot (probable cause), aircraft 2; cases with it: [Piper PA-24-250, 2 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02060000/cases.md?model=7102404), [All aircraft, 137 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-findings/02060000/cases.md)

## Sequence of events

The events NTSB coded, in order, by phase of flight. The defining event best describes what happened.

- [Enroute-cruise: Midair collision](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/250) (defining event), aircraft 1; cases with it: [Piper PA-28-180, 4 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/250/sequence.md?model=7102808), [All aircraft, 196 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/250/sequence.md)
- [Uncontrolled descent: Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) ](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/470), aircraft 1; cases with it: [Piper PA-28-180, 96 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/470/sequence.md?model=7102808), [All aircraft, 10,189 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/470/sequence.md)
- [Enroute-cruise: Midair collision](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/250) (defining event), aircraft 2; cases with it: [Piper PA-24-250, 1 case](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/250/sequence.md?model=7102404), [All aircraft, 196 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/250/sequence.md)
- [Uncontrolled descent: Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) ](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/470), aircraft 2; cases with it: [Piper PA-24-250, 55 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/470/sequence.md?model=7102404), [All aircraft, 10,189 cases](https://openairdocs.org/ntsb-events/470/sequence.md)

## Analysis (aircraft 2)

The two accident pilots arrived at the airport in a Piper PA-24-250 (PA24), with the intention that one of the pilots would ferry a Piper PA-28-180 (PA28) back to the departure airport. The PA28 departed first for the return flight, followed by the PA24; however, the PA24 was faster and caught up to the PA28 within 5 minutes. The PA24 approached from below and behind the PA28 and was likely not visible to the pilot of the PA28. Witnesses near the accident site observed the airplanes flying in the same direction when they "clipped" each other. The PA28 entered an immediate right spiraling dive, while the PA24 entered an "angled nose dive" toward the ground. The PA28 was found inverted with the fuselage crushed; the outboard portion of the right wing was separated and showed damage consistent with propeller strikes to the aft wing spar and flap. The majority of the PA24 was consumed by a postimpact fire. Examination of both airplanes revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. It was not known if the accident pilots were attempting formation flight or were in communication with each other. However, 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 91.111(a) states that "no person may operate an aircraft so close to another aircraft as to create a collision hazard." In addition, 14 CFR 91.113 stipulates that the pilot of an overtaking airplane (in this case, the PA24) “shall alter course...to pass well clear” of the overtaken airplane. The PA24 should not have passed over, under, or ahead of the PA28 unless it was well clear.

## Analysis (aircraft 1)

The two accident pilots arrived at the airport in a Piper PA-24-250 (PA24), with the intention that one of the pilots would ferry a Piper PA-28-180 (PA28) back to the departure airport. The PA28 departed first for the return flight, followed by the PA24; however, the PA24 was faster and caught up to the PA28 within 5 minutes. The PA24 approached from below and behind the PA28 and was likely not visible to the pilot of the PA28. Witnesses near the accident site observed the airplanes flying in the same direction when they "clipped" each other. The PA28 entered an immediate right spiraling dive, while the PA24 entered an "angled nose dive" toward the ground. The PA28 was found inverted with the fuselage crushed; the outboard portion of the right wing was separated and showed damage consistent with propeller strikes to the aft wing spar and flap. The majority of the PA24 was consumed by a postimpact fire. Examination of both airplanes revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. It was not known if the accident pilots were attempting formation flight or were in communication with each other. However, 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 91.111(a) states that "no person may operate an aircraft so close to another aircraft as to create a collision hazard." In addition, 14 CFR 91.113 stipulates that the pilot of an overtaking airplane (in this case, the PA24) “shall alter course...to pass well clear” of the overtaken airplane. The PA24 should not have passed over, under, or ahead of the PA28 unless it was well clear.

## Factual narrative (aircraft 2)

HISTORY OF FLIGHT On May 9, 2011, at 1448 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-28-180 (PA28), N5275L, and a Piper PA-24-250 (PA24), N7757P, were substantially damaged when they collided in midair and impacted terrain, while flying over New Hampton, New York. The certificated private pilot of the PA28 and the certificated private pilot/owner of the PA24 were fatally injured. Both airplanes were operated by private individuals. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for either flight. Both flights departed Orange County Airport (MGJ), Montgomery, New York, and were destined for Sussex Airport (FWN), Sussex, New Jersey. Both airplanes were operated in accordance with 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The PA28 was operating as a ferry flight and the PA24 was operating as a personal flight. According to information obtained by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and witnesses, the PA28 was involved in an incident at MGJ on October 28, 2010, in which its propeller struck a taxiway light. On May 6, 2011, the PA28 was issued a ferry permit by the FAA for the airplane to be flown to FWN for the purpose of "maintenance (out of annual)." The two accident pilots flew to MGJ in the PA24. One of the pilots was also an FAA-licensed mechanic, who the owner of the PA28 arranged to perform the required maintenance at FWN. Both airplanes departed from runway 3, at MGJ about 1440. The PA28 departed first, followed by the PA24, about 1 minute later. Two witnesses near the accident site observed the airplanes flying in the same southwest direction, when they "clipped" each other. One of the airplanes, which was later identified as the PA28, entered an immediate right spiraling dive, while the other airplane entered an "angled nose dive" toward the ground. One witness stated he distinctly heard normal engine sounds from both airplanes; however, he heard the sound of an engine "rev-up" just prior to the collision. Another witness stated she could see, and then subsequently heard debris "falling all around." PERSONNEL INFORMATION The pilot of the PA28, age 53, held a private pilot certificate, with a rating for airplane single-engine land, which was issued during December 1979. He also held a mechanic certificate, with an Inspection Authorization. The logbook for the pilot of the PA28 was not recovered. He reported 5,840 hours of total flight experience, which included 30 hours during the previous 6 months, on his most recent application for an FAA third-class medical certificate, issued on May 4, 2011. The pilot of the PA24, age 61, held a private pilot certificate, with a rating for airplane single-engine land, which was issued during January 1990. His logbook was not recovered. He reported 1,450 hours of total flight experience, which included 25 hours during the previous 6 months, on his most recent application for an FAA third-class medical certificate, which was dated July 1, 2009. AIRCRAFT INFORMATION The PA-28-180 was afour-seat, low-wing, fixed-gear airplane, serial number 28-4574, that was manufactured in 1968. It was powered by a Lycoming O-360 series, 180-horsepower engine that was equipped with a Sensenich propeller. Portions of the airplane's airframe and engine logbooks were located in a wooded area, strewn around the accident site. According to the ferry permit application, the airplane's most recent annual inspection expired during January 2011. Portions of the recovered logbooks noted an annual inspection was performed by the accident pilot on November 4, 2009, at a tachometer time of 194 hours. According to an insurance company representative, at the time of the propeller strike, the airplane had a tachometer time of 280.9 hours, and a total airframe time of 6,238 hours. In addition, the engine had been operated for 1,276 hours since overhaul. The PA-24-250 was a four-seat, low-wing, retractable-gear airplane, serial number 24-2973, that was manufactured in 1961. It was powered by a Lycoming O-540 series, 250-horsepower engine that was equipped with a McCauley propeller. No maintenance records were located for the PA24. METEOROLOGICAL INFORMATION The reported weather at MGJ, elevation 364 feet, at 1454, was: wind 050 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 20 knots; visibility 10 statute miles; clear skies; temperature 20 degrees Celsius (C); dew point 4 degrees C; altimeter 29.92 inches of mercury. WRECKAGE AND IMPACT INFORMATION The accident sites were located about 11 miles southwest from MGJ. Both airplanes impacted in wooded, uneven terrain. Tree heights at the accident sites varied from about 40 to 60 feet, and tree damage was limited to areas in the immediate vicinity of the respective main wreckages. The PA24 was located about 600 feet southwest of the PA28, and airplane fragments were observed scattered over terrain for about 1,000 feet in a south to southwest direction. The PA28 was found inverted with the fuselage crushed down to the top of the seats. The outboard portion of the right wing was separated as was the left side of the stabilator, the vertical stabilizer and an upper portion of the rudder. The empennage remained attached to the main wreckage by control cables only. All separated components were recovered in the debris field. The outboard portion of the right wing, with the wingtip was located about 330 feet to the east of the main wreckage. The right wing inboard section remained secured to the fuselage and extended out about 7 feet. The entire flap was in place; however, it displayed damage to the outboard 17 inches that was consistent with propeller strikes. The aft spar of the wing, the wing skin and aileron bellcrank, all located in the same area, also displayed damage consistent with propeller strikes. The majority of the PA24 was consumed by a post-impact fire. All components were located at the accident site with the exception of the outboard portion of the right stabilator. The left wing was adjacent to the fuselage anddisplayed impact damage along the span of the leading edge aft, to the main spar. About 5 feet of the inboard portion of the wing was separated from the fuselage and outboard section. The right wing was separated from the fuselage and displayed impact damage along the full span. The center section outboard of the wheel-well was separated from the main portion. The wingtip was separated and found adjacent to the wing. The cabin area was compressed against the firewall and the instrument panel was fragmented. The landing gear and flaps were observed in the retracted position. Flight control continuity was verified from the respective flight control surfaces to the cockpits of both airplanes. Examination of both engines and their respective propellers revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. MEDICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL INFORMATION Autopsies were performed on both pilots by the Office of the Medical Examiner, Orange County, New York. Toxicological testing was performed on both pilots by the FAA Bioaeronautical Science Research Laboratory, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Airplane Performance Study An NTSB Airplane Performance Specialist derived the ground track for both airplanes as well as basic flight parameters utilizing available recorded radar data. While the PA28 departed first, the PA24 was over 20 knots faster than the PA28. As a result, once airborne, it took the PA24 less than 5 minutes to catch-up with the PA28. The airplanes converged at an altitude of about 1,850 feet msl, with the PA24 approaching from below and behind the PA28. Pitch, bank, and heading angle estimates for both airplanes were normal until around the time of the collision when both airplanes abruptly pitch down. Federal Aviation Regulations Federal Aviation Administration Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR), 91.111, Operating near other aircraft, stated in part: "(a) No person may operate an aircraft so close to another aircraft as to create a collision hazard. (b) No person may operate an aircraft in formation flight except by arrangement with the pilot in command of each aircraft in the formation…." FAA FAR 91.113, Right-of-way rules: Except water operations, stated in part: "…(b) General. When weather conditions permit, regardless of whether an operation is conducted under instrument flight rules or visual flight rules, vigilance shall be maintained by each person operating an aircraft so as to see and avoid other aircraft. When a rule of this section gives another aircraft the right-of-way, the pilot shall give way to that aircraft and may not pass over, under, or ahead of it unless well clear. …(f) Overtaking. Each aircraft that is being overtaken has the right-of-way and each pilot of an overtaking aircraft shall alter course to the right to pass well clear…." Sun Position According to astronomical data obtained from the U.S Naval Observatory for Montgomery, New York, about the time of theaccident, the sun was positioned about 55 degrees above the horizon, and about 235 degrees east of north.

## Factual narrative (aircraft 1)

HISTORY OF FLIGHT On May 9, 2011, at 1448 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-28-180 (PA28), N5275L, and a Piper PA-24-250 (PA24), N7757P, were substantially damaged when they collided in midair and impacted terrain, while flying over New Hampton, New York. The certificated private pilot of the PA28 and the certificated private pilot/owner of the PA24 were fatally injured. Both airplanes were operated by private individuals. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for either flight. Both flights departed Orange County Airport (MGJ), Montgomery, New York, and were destined for Sussex Airport (FWN), Sussex, New Jersey. Both airplanes were operated in accordance with 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The PA28 was operating as a ferry flight and the PA24 was operating as a personal flight. According to information obtained by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and witnesses, the PA28 was involved in an incident at MGJ on October 28, 2010, in which its propeller struck a taxiway light. On May 6, 2011, the PA28 was issued a ferry permit by the FAA for the airplane to be flown to FWN for the purpose of "maintenance (out of annual)." The two accident pilots flew to MGJ in the PA24. One of the pilots was also an FAA-licensed mechanic, who the owner of the PA28 arranged to perform the required maintenance at FWN. Both airplanes departed from runway 3, at MGJ about 1440. The PA28 departed first, followed by the PA24, about 1 minute later. Two witnesses near the accident site observed the airplanes flying in the same southwest direction, when they "clipped" each other. One of the airplanes, which was later identified as the PA28, entered an immediate right spiraling dive, while the other airplane entered an "angled nose dive" toward the ground. One witness stated he distinctly heard normal engine sounds from both airplanes; however, he heard the sound of an engine "rev-up" just prior to the collision. Another witness stated she could see, and then subsequently heard debris "falling all around." PERSONNEL INFORMATION The pilot of the PA28, age 53, held a private pilot certificate, with a rating for airplane single-engine land, which was issued during December 1979. He also held a mechanic certificate, with an Inspection Authorization. The logbook for the pilot of the PA28 was not recovered. He reported 5,840 hours of total flight experience, which included 30 hours during the previous 6 months, on his most recent application for an FAA third-class medical certificate, issued on May 4, 2011. The pilot of the PA24, age 61, held a private pilot certificate, with a rating for airplane single-engine land, which was issued during January 1990. His logbook was not recovered. He reported 1,450 hours of total flight experience, which included 25 hours during the previous 6 months, on his most recent application for an FAA third-class medical certificate, which was dated July 1, 2009. AIRCRAFT INFORMATION The PA-28-180 was afour-seat, low-wing, fixed-gear airplane, serial number 28-4574, that was manufactured in 1968. It was powered by a Lycoming O-360 series, 180-horsepower engine that was equipped with a Sensenich propeller. Portions of the airplane's airframe and engine logbooks were located in a wooded area, strewn around the accident site. According to the ferry permit application, the airplane's most recent annual inspection expired during January 2011. Portions of the recovered logbooks noted an annual inspection was performed by the accident pilot on November 4, 2009, at a tachometer time of 194 hours. According to an insurance company representative, at the time of the propeller strike, the airplane had a tachometer time of 280.9 hours, and a total airframe time of 6,238 hours. In addition, the engine had been operated for 1,276 hours since overhaul. The PA-24-250 was a four-seat, low-wing, retractable-gear airplane, serial number 24-2973, that was manufactured in 1961. It was powered by a Lycoming O-540 series, 250-horsepower engine that was equipped with a McCauley propeller. No maintenance records were located for the PA24. METEOROLOGICAL INFORMATION The reported weather at MGJ, elevation 364 feet, at 1454, was: wind 050 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 20 knots; visibility 10 statute miles; clear skies; temperature 20 degrees Celsius (C); dew point 4 degrees C; altimeter 29.92 inches of mercury. WRECKAGE AND IMPACT INFORMATION The accident sites were located about 11 miles southwest from MGJ. Both airplanes impacted in wooded, uneven terrain. Tree heights at the accident sites varied from about 40 to 60 feet, and tree damage was limited to areas in the immediate vicinity of the respective main wreckages. The PA24 was located about 600 feet southwest of the PA28, and airplane fragments were observed scattered over terrain for about 1,000 feet in a south to southwest direction. The PA28 was found inverted with the fuselage crushed down to the top of the seats. The outboard portion of the right wing was separated as was the left side of the stabilator, the vertical stabilizer and an upper portion of the rudder. The empennage remained attached to the main wreckage by control cables only. All separated components were recovered in the debris field. The outboard portion of the right wing, with the wingtip was located about 330 feet to the east of the main wreckage. The right wing inboard section remained secured to the fuselage and extended out about 7 feet. The entire flap was in place; however, it displayed damage to the outboard 17 inches that was consistent with propeller strikes. The aft spar of the wing, the wing skin and aileron bellcrank, all located in the same area, also displayed damage consistent with propeller strikes. The majority of the PA24 was consumed by a post-impact fire. All components were located at the accident site with the exception of the outboard portion of the right stabilator. The left wing was adjacent to the fuselage anddisplayed impact damage along the span of the leading edge aft, to the main spar. About 5 feet of the inboard portion of the wing was separated from the fuselage and outboard section. The right wing was separated from the fuselage and displayed impact damage along the full span. The center section outboard of the wheel-well was separated from the main portion. The wingtip was separated and found adjacent to the wing. The cabin area was compressed against the firewall and the instrument panel was fragmented. The landing gear and flaps were observed in the retracted position. Flight control continuity was verified from the respective flight control surfaces to the cockpits of both airplanes. Examination of both engines and their respective propellers revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. MEDICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL INFORMATION Autopsies were performed on both pilots by the Office of the Medical Examiner, Orange County, New York. Toxicological testing was performed on both pilots by the FAA Bioaeronautical Science Research Laboratory, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Airplane Performance Study An NTSB Airplane Performance Specialist derived the ground track for both airplanes as well as basic flight parameters utilizing available recorded radar data. While the PA28 departed first, the PA24 was over 20 knots faster than the PA28. As a result, once airborne, it took the PA24 less than 5 minutes to catch-up with the PA28. The airplanes converged at an altitude of about 1,850 feet msl, with the PA24 approaching from below and behind the PA28. Pitch, bank, and heading angle estimates for both airplanes were normal until around the time of the collision when both airplanes abruptly pitch down. Federal Aviation Regulations Federal Aviation Administration Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR), 91.111, Operating near other aircraft, stated in part: "(a) No person may operate an aircraft so close to another aircraft as to create a collision hazard. (b) No person may operate an aircraft in formation flight except by arrangement with the pilot in command of each aircraft in the formation…." FAA FAR 91.113, Right-of-way rules: Except water operations, stated in part: "…(b) General. When weather conditions permit, regardless of whether an operation is conducted under instrument flight rules or visual flight rules, vigilance shall be maintained by each person operating an aircraft so as to see and avoid other aircraft. When a rule of this section gives another aircraft the right-of-way, the pilot shall give way to that aircraft and may not pass over, under, or ahead of it unless well clear. …(f) Overtaking. Each aircraft that is being overtaken has the right-of-way and each pilot of an overtaking aircraft shall alter course to the right to pass well clear…." Sun Position According to astronomical data obtained from the U.S Naval Observatory for Montgomery, New York, about the time of theaccident, the sun was positioned about 55 degrees above the horizon, and about 235 degrees east of north.

## Aircraft 1

- Registration: [N5275L](https://openairdocs.org/deregistered/N5275L-2016-06-07), registration cancelled 2016-06-07, S/N 28-4574, built 1968 (OpenAirDocs)
- Reported make and model: PIPER PA-28-180
- Registry model: [Piper PA-28-180](https://openairdocs.org/model/piper-pa-28-180) (registry code 7102808) (OpenAirDocs)
- Registry engine: [Lycoming O&VO-360 series](https://openairdocs.org/engine/lycoming-o-vo-360-series) (registry code 41514, reciprocating) (OpenAirDocs)
- Category: Airplane
- Serial number: 28-4574
- Airframe hours: 6240
- Engines: LYCOMING O-360 SER 180 horsepower reciprocating
- Damage: Substantial damage
- Flight: Ferry, Part 91
- Airworthiness certificate: Standard, Normal; Special, Special flight (Special)
- Last inspection: Annual, January 1, 2010
- Departed: MGJ, Montgomery, NY
- Destination: FWN, Sussex, NJ
- Airport: MGJ, Orange County, runway 03, 5,002 × 100 ft, asphalt

## Aircraft 2

- Registration: [N7757P](https://openairdocs.org/deregistered/N7757P-2012-10-09), registration cancelled 2012-10-09, S/N 24-2973, built 1961 (OpenAirDocs)
- Reported make and model: PIPER PA-24-250
- Registry model: [Piper PA-24-250](https://openairdocs.org/model/piper-pa-24-250) (registry code 7102404) (OpenAirDocs)
- Registry engine: [Lycoming 0-540 series](https://openairdocs.org/engine/lycoming-0-540-series) (registry code 41532, reciprocating) (OpenAirDocs)
- Category: Airplane
- Serial number: 24-2973
- Engines: LYCOMING 0-540 SERIES 250 horsepower reciprocating
- Damage: Substantial damage
- Fire: On-Ground
- Flight: Personal, Part 91
- Airworthiness certificate: Standard, Normal
- Departed: MGJ, Montgomery, NY
- Destination: FWN, Sussex, NJ
- Airport: MGJ, Orange County

## Flight crew

As NTSB recorded them. NTSB leaves out names.

- Pilot, aircraft N5275L; age 53; injuries: fatal; private; airplane ratings: single-engine land; medical: class 3, with waivers/limitations; seat: left; toxicology performed; flight hours: 5,840 total
- Pilot, aircraft N7757P; age 61; injuries: fatal; private; airplane ratings: single-engine land; medical: class 3, with waivers/limitations; seat: left; toxicology performed; flight hours: 1,450 total

## Weather

- Conditions: Visual (VMC), Day
- Wind: 50° at 13 knots, gusting 20
- Visibility: 10 statute miles
- Lowest ceiling: none
- Temperature: 68 °F, dew point 39 °F
- Altimeter: 29.92 inHg
- Observed at: MGJ, 11 nm away

## FAA reports on this event (2)

The FAA's own accident and incident reports, matched to the aircraft by N-number and date (OpenAirDocs).

- [Accident 20110509009231A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/20110509009231A), May 9, 2011: Piper PA-28-180, Wawayanda, NY, Destroyed, 1 fatal. [privacy data omitted], Flying PA-28-180, N5275L departed runway 03 at the orange county, NY (mgj) airport at approximately 1341L, within approximately 1…
- [Accident 20110509009241A](https://openairdocs.org/incident/20110509009241A), May 9, 2011: Piper PA-24-250, Wawayanda, NY, Destroyed, 1 fatal. [privacy data omitted], Flying PA-24-250, N7757P, departed runway 03 at the orange county, NY (mgj) airport at approximately 1341L, withinapproximately 1…

## Docket (23 files)

The files NTSB released with the investigation on June 14, 2012, on NTSB's docket system: https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket?ProjectID=79059. 74.9 MB in all.

- PA28 Ferry Permit Information (item 1, .PDF, 314 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369468&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=PA28%20Ferry%20Permit%20Information-Redacted.PDF
- Witness Statements and Memorandums (item 2, .PDF, 718 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369521&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Witness%20Statements%20and%20Memorandums-Redacted.PDF
- Orange County Airport Weather Observations (item 3, .PDF, 23 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369467&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Orange%20County%20Airport%20Weather%20Observations-Master.PDF
- Aircraft Performance 13 - Airplane Performance Study (item 4, .PDF, 495 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40367498&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Aircraft%20Performance%2013%20-%20Airplane%20Performance%20Study-Master.PDF
- Federal Aviation Regulations (excerpts) (item 5, .PDF, 30 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369469&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Federal%20Aviation%20Regulations%20(excerpts)-Master.PDF
- PA28 Maintenance Records (excerpts) (item 6, .PDF, 446 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369520&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=PA28%20Maintenance%20Records%20(excerpts)-Redacted.PDF
- PA28 Owner's Logbook (excerpt) (item 7, .PDF, 236 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369471&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=PA28%20Owner%27s%20Logbook%20(excerpt)-Master.PDF
- FAA Forsensic Toxicology Report (PA28) (item 8, .PDF, 57 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369472&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=FAA%20Forsensic%20Toxicology%20Report%20(PA28)-Redacted.PDF
- FAA Forsensic Toxicology Report (PA24) (item 9, .PDF, 57 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369473&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=FAA%20Forsensic%20Toxicology%20Report%20(PA24)-Redacted.PDF
- U.S Naval Observatory Astronomical Data (item 10, .PDF, 29 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369981&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=U.S%20Naval%20Observatory%20Astronomical%20Data-Master.PDF
- Wreckage Release and Evidence Control Forms (PA28 & PA24) (item 11, .PDF, 140 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369474&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Wreckage%20Release%20and%20Evidence%20Control%20Forms%20(PA28%20%26%20PA24)-Redacted.PDF
- NTSB Party Form and Guidance (item 12, .PDF, 359 KB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369475&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=NTSB%20Party%20Form%20and%20Guidance-Redacted.PDF
- Photograph # 1 – PA28: As it came to rest (item 13, .PDF, 6.9 MB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369482&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Photograph%20%23%201%20%E2%80%93%20PA28%3A%20As%20it%20came%20to%20rest-Master.PDF
- Photograph # 2 – PA28: View of left wing (item 14, .PDF, 6.8 MB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369483&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Photograph%20%23%202%20%E2%80%93%20PA28%3A%20View%20of%20left%20wing-Master.PDF
- Photograph # 3 – PA28: Empennage (item 15, .PDF, 7.4 MB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369484&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Photograph%20%23%203%20%E2%80%93%20PA28%3A%20Empennage-Master.PDF
- Photograph # 4 – PA28: Overview of damage to right wing (item 16, .PDF, 5.7 MB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369485&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Photograph%20%23%204%20%E2%80%93%20PA28%3A%20Overview%20of%20damage%20to%20right%20wing-Master.PDF
- Photograph # 5 – PA28: Close-up view of damage to right wing (item 17, .PDF, 5.4 MB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369486&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Photograph%20%23%205%20%E2%80%93%20PA28%3A%20Close-up%20view%20of%20damage%20to%20right%20wing-Master.PDF
- Photograph # 6 – PA28: Engine (item 18, .PDF, 6.9 MB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369487&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Photograph%20%23%206%20%E2%80%93%20PA28%3A%20Engine-Master.PDF
- Photograph # 7 – PA24: Overview of Accident Site (item 19, .PDF, 9.8 MB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369488&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Photograph%20%23%207%20%E2%80%93%20PA24%3A%20Overview%20of%20Accident%20Site-Master.PDF
- Photograph # 8 – PA24: Overview of Wreckage (item 20, .PDF, 1.2 MB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369489&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Photograph%20%23%208%20%E2%80%93%20PA24%3A%20Overview%20of%20Wreckage-Master.PDF
- Photograph # 9 – PA24 Aft fuselage and empennage (item 21, .PDF, 7.3 MB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369490&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Photograph%20%23%209%20%E2%80%93%20PA24%20Aft%20fuselage%20and%20empennage-Master.PDF
- Photograph # 10 – PA24 Forward portion of airplane, including engine (item 22, .PDF, 7.3 MB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369491&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Photograph%20%23%2010%20%E2%80%93%20PA24%20Forward%20portion%20of%20airplane,%20including%20engine-Master.PDF
- Photograph # 11 – PA24 Engine after recovery (item 23, .PDF, 7.2 MB): https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=40369492&FileExtension=.PDF&FileName=Photograph%20%23%2011%20%E2%80%93%20PA24%20Engine%20after%20recovery-Master.PDF

From the NTSB's public API. Aircraft are matched to registry aircraft by N-number and event date, checked against the reported serial number, make and model; the registry's history has gaps, so older matches can be wrong. Compare the reported make and model.

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