Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA19CA438

Columbia Station, OH, USA

Aircraft #1

N9161S

Beech 19

Analysis

The pilot reported that, during takeoff, the airplane "did not gain altitude normally." About midfield, the airplane had climbed only a few feet, and the right wing hit tall grass that outlined the 40-ft-wide runway. The pilot aborted the takeoff, and the airplane departed the right side of the runway and came to rest nose down. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine mounts. According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook, the airplane's wingspan was 32 ft 9 in. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The pilot reported that during takeoff, the airplane "did not gain altitude normally." About midfield, the airplane had climbed only a few feet and the right wing "may have caught" the 4ft tall grass that outlined the 40ft wide runway. The pilot aborted the takeoff and the airplane departed the right side of the runway and came to rest nose down. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine mounts. According to the manufacturer's pilot operating handbook the wingspan of the airplane was 32ft 9in. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to see and avoid tall grass along the side of the runway during the takeoff roll, which resulted in his loss of directional control, a runway excursion, and nose-over.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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