No fatalities

Aircraft Drifts Left on Takeoff, Strikes Tire, Elevator Jammed (N21AT)

Beuamont, KS, US

On July 11, 1984, a Cessna 172 (registration N21AT) was involved in an aviation accident near Beuamont, KS. No fatalities were reported. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a northbound takeoff on a sod runway outlined with old tires, the aircraft drifted left, striking a tire that jammed the elevator. With the right front seat passenger's help, the pilot regained elevator control and landed safely using power for pitch attitude.

Incident Overview

A pilot was taking off to the north on a sod runway with a light, northeast wind. The runway was outlined with old automobile tires. The pilot elected to use the left side of the runway because it appeared to be smoother.

Sequence of Events

After lift-off, the aircraft drifted left and the left main landing gear hit a tire. The tire flipped up and struck the horizontal stabilizer, jamming the elevator. With the aid of the right front seat passenger, the pilot was able to move the elevator control.

Landing

The pilot then landed safely while using engine power to control the pitch attitude.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Jul 1984 Cessna 172 accident near Beuamont, KS?

During a northbound takeoff on a sod runway outlined with old tires, the aircraft drifted left, striking a tire that jammed the elevator. With the right front seat passenger's help, the pilot regained elevator control and landed safely using power for pitch attitude.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Jul 1984 Cessna 172 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Jul 1984 involved a Cessna 172, registration N21AT, at Beuamont, KS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40435. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.