Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA18CA128

Keller, TX, USA

Aircraft #1

N2829N

CESSNA 140

Analysis

The pilot reported that during takeoff, a flock of ducks crossed his flightpath, and with insufficient runway remaining to reject the takeoff , he remained low to fly under them. Unable to climb, the airplane's tailwheel struck a fence post beyond the departure end of the runway. The pilot returned and landed safely, however the airplane sustained substantial damage to the rudder and the right elevator. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The pilot reported that during takeoff, a flock of ducks crossed his flight path, and with insufficient runway remaining to reject the landing, he remained low to fly under them. Unable to climb, the airplane's tailwheel struck a fencepost beyond the departure end of the runway. The pilot returned and landed safely, however the airplane sustained substantial damage to the rudder and the right elevator. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's inability to gain altitude normally in order to avoid a flock of ducks flying overhead during takeoff, which resulted in the airplane striking a fence.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

Get all the details on your iPhone or iPad with:

Aviation Accidents App

In-Depth Access to Aviation Accident Reports