Aviation Accident Summary CHI08CA287

Three Lakes, WI, USA

Aircraft #1

N12809

CESSNA 172M

Analysis

The airplane impacted trees after takeoff. The pilot reported that upon takeoff the airplane's door opened. He reported that he opened the window and attempted to close the door. He stated that he became distracted trying to close the door and the left wing of the airplane clipped trees. He stated that there were no mechanical difficulties with the airplane.

Factual Information

The airplane impacted trees after takeoff. The pilot reported that upon takeoff, the airplane's door opened. He reported that he opened the window and attempted to close the door. He stated that he became distracted trying to close the door and the left wing of the airplane clipped trees. He stated that there were no mechanical difficulties with the airplane. The airplane came to rest within the trees.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to attain sufficient altitude to avoid the trees during initial climb. Contributing to the accident were the pilot's failure to ensure the security of the entrance door before takeoff and the unintentional opening of the door.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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