Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
During takeoff from the turf runway in calm wind conditions, the pilot lost directional control. The airplane’s right wing impacted some bamboo, the airplane spun to the right, and impacted the terrain in a slight nose low attitude. The airplane came to rest upright and sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN22LA199 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 13, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Port Bolivar, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Seafood Warehouse Park (XS77)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper J3F-65
- N-number
- N35257
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1941
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.