Casualties unknown

Aborted Takeoff on Grass Runway Ends in Ground Loop (N731GN)

Del Norte, CO, US

On July 5, 1985, a Cessna A188B (registration N731GN) was involved in an aviation accident near Del Norte, CO. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot aborted a takeoff on a 3,800-ft grass runway at 7,700 ft elevation and 88°F, lost directional control, and groundlooped. The pilot cited a downwind takeoff and a gust.

Incident

A pilot attempted to take off from a 3,800-foot grass runway. The field elevation was 7,700 feet and the temperature was 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Approximately 2,500 feet down the runway, the pilot decided to abort the takeoff. During the abort, directional control was lost and the airplane groundlooped.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that the takeoff was conducted downwind and that a gust was encountered during the takeoff roll.

Performance Note

According to aircraft performance figures, the airplane should have been able to accelerate to takeoff speed and then brake to a stop within the available runway length.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37094. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.