Private aircraft collides with truck during takeoff but returns safely

Casualties unknown • Titusville, FL, US

A private aircraft struck a ground crew truck roof during takeoff while carrying eight passengers for a parachute drop. The pilot managed to stay airborne and land normally; no injuries were reported.

What happened

The aircraft collided with a truck while taking off but managed to stay airborne, fly a mission, and return to a normal landing. The private pilot was reportedly carrying 8 passengers for a parachute drop. He would not admit he was carrying passengers and none of the passengers would give a written statement. One of the jumpers stated that during takeoff the pilot flew the aircraft to the left side of the runway where the ground crew truck was parked. The tail wheel of the aircraft hit the roof of the truck. One of the jumpers said that the private pilot was paid to fly them. The pilot's assessment of the damage was loosened brackets on the tail wheel attachment. No one was reported as injured.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1983-10-01 DE Havilland DHC2 accident near Titusville, FL?

A private aircraft struck a ground crew truck roof during takeoff while carrying eight passengers for a parachute drop. The pilot managed to stay airborne and land normally; no injuries were reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-10-01 involved a DE Havilland DHC2, registration N31339, at Titusville, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44907. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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