Casualties unknown

Aircraft Collides with Trees and Wires After Takeoff Turn (N8439L)

Brockport, NY, US

On August 15, 1984, a Cessna 172I (registration N8439L) was involved in an aviation accident near Brockport, NY. 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

An aircraft crashed into trees and wires about 2,500 feet from the takeoff point after making a steep right turn at low altitude. Investigators found no mechanical or physical cause.

Accident Overview

The aircraft, having performed a normal landing, conducted a running takeoff on runway 28. Witnesses observed the airplane fail to gain altitude, maintaining approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL). After takeoff, the aircraft initiated a right turn with a bank angle exceeding sixty degrees. The maneuver resulted in a 90-degree heading change to a northerly direction.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft continued on this new heading without further change in altitude or direction, until it flew into wires and trees approximately 2,500 feet from the takeoff point. The aircraft sustained damage due to the collision with the obstacles.

Investigation Findings

A thorough investigation of the aircraft and its systems revealed nothing of a mechanical or physical nature that contributed to the determination of the cause of the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Aug 1984 Cessna 172I accident near Brockport, NY?

An aircraft crashed into trees and wires about 2,500 feet from the takeoff point after making a steep right turn at low altitude. Investigators found no mechanical or physical cause.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Aug 1984 involved a Cessna 172I, registration N8439L, at Brockport, NY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40849. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.