Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Power Pole and Noses Over During Takeoff from Private Strip (N55299)

Dateland, AZ, US

On December 6, 1982, a Cessna 172P (registration N55299) operated by Superstition Air Service, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Dateland, AZ. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from a private airstrip, the aircraft's right wing hit a power pole, causing a veer toward a ditch. After clearing the ditch, it touched down in a plowed field and nosed over.

Incident Overview

The incident occurred during a takeoff from a private airstrip. The pilot deliberately used the right side of the runway to avoid an area of mud. As the aircraft reached lift-off speed, the right wing tip struck a power pole located near the right side of the runway. The impact caused the aircraft to veer toward an irrigation ditch.

Sequence of Events

The pilot managed to clear the ditch, then reduced engine power. The aircraft subsequently touched down in a plowed field. According to reports, the aircraft nosed over during the aborted takeoff.

Environmental Factors

The takeoff was conducted from a private strip. The pilot was avoiding a muddy area on the strip. A power pole was present near the right runway edge. An irrigation ditch was nearby, and the landing occurred in a plowed field.

Outcome

No information is provided regarding injuries or damage beyond the aircraft nosing over as reported.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Dec 1982 Cessna 172P accident near Dateland, AZ?

During takeoff from a private airstrip, the aircraft's right wing hit a power pole, causing a veer toward a ditch. After clearing the ditch, it touched down in a plowed field and nosed over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Dec 1982 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N55299, operated by Superstition Air Service, Inc., at Dateland, AZ.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04868. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.