Casualties unknown

Loss of Control Shortly After Takeoff Leads to Tree Strike and Post-Impact Fire (N732HH)

Root Ranch, ID, US

On July 3, 1988, a Cessna TU-206-G (registration N732HH) was involved in an aviation accident near Root Ranch, ID. 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

Shortly after takeoff, the pilot lost control of the aircraft before reaching 500 feet AGL, striking trees and then impacting the ground with a subsequent fire. An extreme nose-high attitude was observed by witnesses. No mechanical abnormalities were found in the engine or systems.

Introduction

On an unspecified date, an aircraft experienced a loss of control shortly after taking off from an airstrip with an elevation of 5,650 feet. The incident occurred before the aircraft reached 500 feet above ground level (AGL), resulting in a collision with trees and a subsequent ground impact followed by a severe fire.

Narrative

Witnesses reported that from rotation until the loss of control, the aircraft maintained an extreme nose-high attitude. They observed the left wing drop, which they described as resembling either an intentional left turn or a departure stall. After striking trees, the aircraft impacted the ground and erupted into flames. The post-impact fire was severe, leading to the destruction of the aircraft's systems.

Investigation

An examination of the aircraft's engine and turbocharging system was conducted, including a teardown, but no abnormalities were found. Investigators could not determine a mechanical reason for the nose-high attitude or the loss of control. The aircraft's weight was below the maximum gross weight, and the center of gravity (CG) was within limits. Density altitude at the time was approximately 7,000 feet. This was the second flight of the day for the pilot and passenger.

Conclusion

The investigation did not identify a mechanical cause for the loss of control. The circumstances suggest a possible aerodynamic stall, but no definitive conclusion was reached.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Jul 1988 Cessna TU-206-G accident near Root Ranch, ID?

Shortly after takeoff, the pilot lost control of the aircraft before reaching 500 feet AGL, striking trees and then impacting the ground with a subsequent fire. An extreme nose-high attitude was observed by witnesses. No mechanical abnormalities were found in the engine or systems.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Jul 1988 involved a Cessna TU-206-G, registration N732HH, at Root Ranch, ID.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26385. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.