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Casualties unknown

Aborted Takeoff After Pilot Notes Unusual Feel Leads to Runway Overrun and Gear Collapse (N3961G)

Bloomington, IN, US

On January 22, 1987, a Cessna 340A (registration N3961G) operated by Real Air, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Bloomington, IN. 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

During preflight, the pilot found snow on the aircraft but chose not to remove it. On takeoff, after rotating, the pilot aborted due to an unusual feel but could not stop on the wet runway. The aircraft overran onto grass, went over a terrain drop-off, and the landing gear collapsed.

Incident Summary

A pilot reported that during preflight, snow was present on the aircraft. The snow could be moved with hand brushing, but the pilot elected not to remove it. During departure, as the aircraft was rotated for lift-off, the pilot noted that the aircraft did not feel right and intentionally aborted the takeoff.

Takeoff and Abort

The pilot rotated the aircraft to lift off but immediately sensed an abnormality. Deciding to abort, the pilot attempted to stop the aircraft on the remaining runway. However, the runway surface was wet, and the aircraft was unable to stop within the available distance.

Runway Overrun and Outcome

The aircraft continued beyond the runway onto a grass overrun, traveling approximately 100 to 150 feet. It then encountered a drop-off in terrain, causing the landing gear to collapse. The aircraft came to rest with its gear collapsed.

Probable Cause

No probable cause was stated in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Jan 1987 Cessna 340A accident near Bloomington, IN?

During preflight, the pilot found snow on the aircraft but chose not to remove it. On takeoff, after rotating, the pilot aborted due to an unusual feel but could not stop on the wet runway. The aircraft overran onto grass, went over a terrain drop-off, and the landing gear collapsed.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Jan 1987 involved a Cessna 340A, registration N3961G, operated by Real Air, Inc., at Bloomington, IN.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30048. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.