FTW94FA242

Witnesses observed the airplane over-flying the gastons resort airstrip. As the airplane reached the area in the vicinity of the resorts office complex, which is located on the south side of the departure end of the airstrip, it appeared to be too high to make a landing. The airplane 'made a sudden unusual steep left turn.' When the airplane was mid-point of the river, its 'nose dropped' and the airplane impacted the water in a left wing low attitude with the engine 'screaming.' The left wing separated from the fuselage and was recovered downstream.

History of flight

On July 23, 1994, at 1243 central daylight time, a Piper PA-28-161, N36566, was substantially damaged following a loss of control near Lakeview, Arkansas. The private pilot and two passengers were fatally injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal cross country flight.

The flight originated at Kansas City Downtown Airport (MKC), Kansas City, Missouri, with a destination of Gastons Resort Airstrip (3M0), Lakeview, Arkansas. A witness observed the airplane over flying the 3200 x 75 foot sod air strip. As the airplane reached the area in the vicinity of the resort office complex, which is located on the south side of the departure end of the air strip, it appeared to be too high to make a landing. The witness stated the airplane then "made a sudden unusual steep left turn."

Other witnesses who were fishing on the White River stated they saw the airplane come over the trees "perpendicular to the river, the nose up, it was in a tight left turn with the left wing low." When the airplane was mid-point of the river, its "nose dropped and it abruptly changed direction coming straight down the river." They further stated, "the plane dived toward the river, engine still screaming." They also stated, "the left wing dipped, hit the water first, and flew off."

Personnel information

According to the operator the private pilot flew approximately once every 5 to 6 weeks. To the best of the operator's knowledge this was the first time the pilot flew to Gastons Airstrip.

Wreckage and impact information

The airplane came to rest inverted on a measured heading of 225 degrees, in the White River across from the Gaston Resort. The left wing was separated from the fuselage and was recovered down stream. See enclosed wreckage diagram. Examination of the airplane and engine did not disclose any mechanical anomolies. The wing flaps were found in the retracted position. Continuity was established to all flight controls.

Medical and pathological information

The autopsy was performed by pathologist Charles E. Kokes, M.D. at the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, Little Rock, Arkansas. Toxicological findings were negative.

Additional data

The airplane was released to the owners representative.