Piper J3-C | N28DR

The DTSB determines the Probable Cause to be Pilot Error, in that the rear seat pilot, acting as a CFI, flew too low to the tree line while approaching runway 24, whereupon the left wing impacted trees. The aircraft travelled approximately 113 feet from this IPOC (Initial Point of Contact) and impacted nose low and right wing down. The front seat passenger (flight instruction recipient) was wearing a four point restraint system and survived, while the CFI in the rear seat was wearing only a lap belt. While the slow speed impact was survivable, the rear seat CFI died from head injuries sustained in the impact.

The DTSB recommends that all pilots of all aircraft wear sufficient restraining systems during takeoff and landing that would prevent head injuries during an unexpected event such as this.