NTSB Factual Report

On July 3, 2017, about 1300 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-15, N4195H was destroyed during takeoff from a field near Farmville, Virginia. The private pilot was seriously injured. The personal flight was conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the flight that was originating at the time of the accident, and was destined for Frederick Municipal Airport (FDK) Frederick, Maryland.

In a statement provided to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, the pilot stated that he purchased the airplane the day before the accident and was flying back to his home airport. After departing from William M. Tuck Airport (W78), South Boston, Virginia, the pilot made a precautionary landing in a field due to a possible fuel transfer issue. After confirming fuel flow to the engine he attempted to take off from the field, which was covered with high, matted grass. The pilot reported he was unable to clear the trees at the end of the field. He then made a low altitude turn and the airplane stalled, impacting terrain before a spin could fully develop.

Examination of the wreckage by the FAA inspector revealed a post-crash fire had destroyed the airplane. The two seat, high wing, tailwheel-equipped airplane, was powered by a Continental C85, 85 horsepower engine.

The pilot held a commercial pilot certificate with ratings for airplane single-engine land, airplane single-engine sea, airplane multiengine land, and instrument airplane. He also possessed mechanic certificate with ratings for airframe and powerplant.

The 1255 weather at FVX included wind from 040° at 3 knots; visibility 10 statute miles; sky condition, 6,000 ft scattered; temperature, 32° C; dew point, 11° C; and altimeter setting 30.05 inches of mercury.