Pilot Ground Loops Aircraft to Avoid Trees During Short Takeoff

Casualties unknown • Loami, IL, US

A pilot carrying a heavy load of wheat seed during the first flight of the day struggled to clear obstacles after takeoff, leading to an emergency maneuver.

What happened

The aircraft was preparing for its first departure of the day with a substantial cargo load. The pilot reported carrying approximately 1080 pounds of wheat seed on board. Environmental conditions at the time included a temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit and a dew point of 68 degrees, indicating high humidity. A direct crosswind of 6 knots was also present during the departure phase.

During the takeoff roll, the pilot realized that the heavy load and environmental factors were preventing the aircraft from achieving sufficient airspeed to clear a line of trees at the end of the runway. After utilizing roughly three-quarters of the available runway length, it became apparent that a normal climb-out was impossible. To prevent a collision with the vegetation, the pilot attempted to activate the emergency fuel dump system. However, this system was configured to release fuel at a rate of only 1.5 bushels per acre, which proved ineffective for rapid weight reduction.

Faced with the imminent danger of striking the trees, the pilot executed an intentional ground loop maneuver. This action successfully turned the aircraft away from the obstacle line but resulted in the plane continuing to move backward into the treeline.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to take off with a heavy load under high-density altitude conditions without adequate runway length, leading to an inability to clear obstacles and necessitating an emergency ground loop.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1982-07-24 Cessna 188B accident near Loami, IL?

A pilot carrying a heavy load of wheat seed during the first flight of the day struggled to clear obstacles after takeoff, leading to an emergency maneuver.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1982-07-24 involved a Cessna 188B, registration N4970Q, operated by Bob Davis Flying Service, Inc., at Loami, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to take off with a heavy load under high-density altitude conditions without adequate runway length, leading to an inability to clear obstacles and necessitating an emergency ground loop.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03002. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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