Casualties unknown

Student Pilot and Instructor Strike Bushes During Takeoff from Unimproved Airstrip (N2205T)

Anza, CA, US

On June 8, 1982, a Cessna 185 (registration N2205T) operated by Mission Aviation Fellowship was involved in an aviation accident near Anza, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from an unimproved private airstrip, a student pilot angled excessively to the left, causing the left wing to strike a bush. The instructor was unable to regain control before the aircraft hit two more bushes.

Background

A student pilot, who was already a rated pilot, and an instructor landed on an unimproved private airstrip. The strip was located at an elevation of approximately 4750 feet above mean sea level.

Pre-Takeoff Considerations

After landing, the two pilots walked the length of the airstrip and discussed its condition. They observed tall grass on the right side of the strip, three bushes on the left side, and a ditch approximately 800 feet from the approach end. Additionally, four dogs and three horses were present in the vicinity. The pilots decided that during takeoff they would angle slightly across the runway. Their initial concern involved the location of the animals.

Takeoff and Sequence of Events

After starting the takeoff roll, the student pilot angled the aircraft further to the left than the instructor had anticipated. As a result, the left wing struck one of the bushes. The aircraft then veered to the left. The instructor attempted to regain control, but was unable to do so before the aircraft struck two additional bushes.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03557. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.