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Casualties unknown

Aircraft Flips After Runway Excursion During Takeoff (N68298)

Oxford, OH, US

On February 23, 1982, a Cessna 152II (registration N68298) operated by Harrison Social Flites, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Oxford, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and flipping over after the nose wheel dug into soft mud. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, an aircraft drifted off the runway and flipped over after the nose wheel dug into soft mud following a failed correction attempt.

What happened

Following a routine landing, the pilot initiated the takeoff roll. After retracting the flaps and applying power, the aircraft began to accelerate down the runway. As airspeed increased, the aircraft started to drift laterally off the paved surface.

The pilot attempted to maintain directional control using rudder input, but the aircraft continued to veer off the runway. Before the nose wheel could be lifted or power reduced effectively, it dug into soft mud adjacent to the runway. The force of the impact caused the aircraft to flip over.

The investigation

Examination of the event focused on the sequence of events during the takeoff roll. The primary mechanical factor identified was the loss of directional control due to the nose wheel penetrating soft ground.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and flipping over after the nose wheel dug into soft mud.
Runway excursion

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Feb 1982 Cessna 152II accident near Oxford, OH?

During takeoff, an aircraft drifted off the runway and flipped over after the nose wheel dug into soft mud following a failed correction attempt.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Feb 1982 involved a Cessna 152II, registration N68298, operated by Harrison Social Flites, Inc., at Oxford, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and flipping over after the nose wheel dug into soft mud.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X01819. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.