Casualties unknown

Pilot Ground Loops Aircraft to Avoid Trees During Takeoff with Wheat Seed Load (N4970Q)

Loami, IL, US

On July 24, 1982, a Cessna 188B (registration N4970Q) operated by Bob Davis Flying Service, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Loami, IL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 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 with 1080 lbs of wheat seed, a pilot realized insufficient runway to clear trees, activated an emergency dump system, then ground looped the aircraft, which slid backward into trees.

Incident Overview

A pilot was conducting the first takeoff of the day with a reported load of 1,080 pounds of wheat seed. The takeoff was attempted under a direct crosswind of 6 knots, with temperature and dew point of 78°F and 68°F, respectively.

Takeoff and Decision

After using approximately three-quarters of the available runway length, the pilot became aware that the aircraft would not become airborne in sufficient time to clear a line of trees at the end of the runway. In response, the pilot activated the emergency dump lever to reduce the load. However, the system was programmed to dump only 1.5 bushels per acre, which did not provide a significant reduction in weight.

Execution and Outcome

To avoid colliding with the line of trees, the pilot intentionally executed a ground loop. Despite the maneuver, the aircraft continued moving backward and entered the trees. The incident occurred without any further details regarding injuries or damage to the aircraft or property.

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.