On October 23, 1985, a Cessna 170B (registration N170CE) operated by Dann Johnson was involved in an aviation accident near Coloradosprings, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control during takeoff resulting in a collision with the ground. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Following takeoff on runway 17, the aircraft experienced an abrupt left wing rise and veered right. The pilot was unable to regain control at low altitude before impacting the ground.
What happened
The pilot initiated takeoff operations on runway 17 under reported wind conditions from 130 degrees at 10 knots. Shortly after liftoff, the left wing of the aircraft rose abruptly, causing the aircraft to veer sharply to the right. Due to the low altitude at which this occurred, the pilot was unable to regain control before the aircraft collided with the ground.
The investigation
The pilot stated that the loss of control was due to the low altitude preventing recovery actions after the initial wing rise and veer.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control during takeoff resulting in a collision with the ground.
What happened in the 23 Oct 1985 Cessna 170B accident near Coloradosprings, CO?
Following takeoff on runway 17, the aircraft experienced an abrupt left wing rise and veered right. The pilot was unable to regain control at low altitude before impacting the ground.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Oct 1985 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N170CE, operated by Dann Johnson, at Coloradosprings, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain control during takeoff resulting in a collision with the ground.
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