Probable cause
The pilot's improper rotation during takeoff, resulting in a stall and subsequent collision with the ground.
NTSB analysis
During the takeoff roll, with the flaps extended, the pilot over-rotated the airplane when it reached an airspeed of 85 mph. He retracted the landing gear, the airspeed decreased to 69 mph, and the airplane stalled. The left wing dropped, the pilot lowered the nose of the airplane, and it collided with the ground resulting in substantial damage to the airframe. The pilot stated there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane. Visual examination of the airplane verified the pilot's statement. The flight manual for the airplane indicated the airplane will stall at 69 mph with the landing gear and flaps extended.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA11LA438 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 3, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- St. Petersburg, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Albert Whitted Airport (SPG)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 4
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-30
- N-number
- N8314Y
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.