On November 7, 1982, a Cessna 172 (registration N5301D) operated by K.m. Messerang was involved in an aviation accident near Port Hope, MI. 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.
During a soft field takeoff from a wet grass runway with wind estimated at 210-220° at 15 knots, the pilot encountered a sudden gust causing the aircraft to drift left, veer off, and collide with trees.
Pilot's Report
The pilot who was at the controls provided a detailed account of the events. According to the pilot, the wind conditions were estimated as follows: wind from 210 to 220 degrees at a speed of 15 knots. The runway surface was grass and was reported to be in a soft and wet condition. The pilot decided to use a soft field takeoff procedure for the departure from Runway 18. The aircraft's flaps were set to 10 degrees, and the pilot applied approximately half of the available aileron control deflection during the takeoff roll.
Sequence of Events
During the takeoff, a sudden gust of wind was encountered. As a result, the aircraft began to drift to the left side of the runway. This drift continued, and the aircraft veered off the left edge of the runway. After leaving the runway surface, the aircraft struck trees.
What happened in the 7 Nov 1982 Cessna 172 accident near Port Hope, MI?
During a soft field takeoff from a wet grass runway with wind estimated at 210-220° at 15 knots, the pilot encountered a sudden gust causing the aircraft to drift left, veer off, and collide with trees.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Nov 1982 involved a Cessna 172, registration N5301D, operated by K.m. Messerang, at Port Hope, MI.
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