Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA17CA403

Grand Island, NE, USA

Aircraft #1

N45609

LUSCOMBE 8

Analysis

The flight instructor reported that, during an instructional flight, when the tailwheel-equipped airplane was at rotation for takeoff, it sharply veered to the left. When safe flight was not assured, the flight instructor took over control from the student pilot, and subsequently the airplane exited the runway into the adjacent grassy area. Postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the fuselage. The flight instructor reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The flight instructor reported that during an instructional flight, when the tailwheel-equipped airplane was at rotation for takeoff, it sharply veered to the left. When safe flight was not assured, the flight instructor took over control from the student pilot, and subsequently landed the airplane in the grass area adjacent to the runway. Postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the fuselage. The flight instructor reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The student pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll and the flight instructor’s delayed remedial action.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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