Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Ground During Aborted Takeoff from Gravel Airstrip (N1964J)

Pasco, WA, US

On July 27, 1985, a Cessna T-188C (registration N1964J) was involved in an aviation accident near Pasco, WA. 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 heavily loaded aircraft aborted takeoff from a 1,800-foot gravel airstrip in high temperature conditions, became airborne during the abort, and struck the ground after the right wing contacted tall wheat in a shallow turn.

Incident Overview

A pilot chose to depart from a 1,800-foot gravel airstrip on a day when the temperature was 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The density altitude was calculated at approximately 3,100 feet. The aircraft was heavily loaded, approaching its maximum gross weight.

Sequence of Events

During the takeoff roll, the pilot decided to abort the takeoff when approximately two-thirds of the runway had been used. He jettisoned his load and selected full flaps. Subsequently, the aircraft became airborne. During a shallow right turn, the right wing made contact with tall wheat, leading to the aircraft striking the ground.

Circumstances

The incident occurred on a gravel airstrip. The aircraft's weight was near the gross weight limit. The pilot's actions included dumping the load and applying full flaps before becoming airborne. The right wing contacting tall wheat preceded the ground impact.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37313. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.