Casualties unknown

Takeoff Abort Ends with Collision with Field Level (N6512Q)

Afton, CA, US

On August 9, 1983, an Alon A2 (registration N6512Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Afton, CA. 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 an aerial observation mission, a pilot landed due to passenger illness, then attempted takeoff from a plowed field. Aborting after airspeed decreased, the aircraft collided with a level at the field's end.

Accident Details

An aerial observation mission was underway when the passenger became ill, prompting the pilot to land on a hard-packed strip across a plowed field. After landing, the pilot walked the area to assess its suitability for a subsequent takeoff. He noted a rut at about midfield but perceived that, aside from that rut, there would be no problem in taking off again.

Sequence of Events

The pilot decided to stay to the left while in the vicinity of the rut during the takeoff. He also selected a 'point-of-no-return' and an abort point. A short time later, he began the takeoff using soft field procedures. However, when he reached his abort point, the airspeed was decreasing instead of increasing. He aborted the takeoff but was unable to stop before hitting a level at the end of the field.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Aug 1983 Alon A2 accident near Afton, CA?

During an aerial observation mission, a pilot landed due to passenger illness, then attempted takeoff from a plowed field. Aborting after airspeed decreased, the aircraft collided with a level at the field's end.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Aug 1983 involved an Alon A2, registration N6512Q, at Afton, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44210. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.