On August 29, 1988, a Cessna 182Q (registration N97076) operated by James H. Reiman was involved in an aviation accident near St. Louis, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to abort the takeoff after noticing an inoperative airspeed indicator, which resulted in the aircraft running off the runway. The inoperability was caused by an insect obstructing the pitot system. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot aborted a night takeoff after noticing an inoperative airspeed indicator, but ran off the runway onto grass, collapsing the nose wheel.
What happened
During a nighttime takeoff roll, the pilot observed that the airspeed indicator was not functioning. Recognizing the critical nature of this instrument failure during the takeoff phase, he made the decision to abort the maneuver immediately. Despite his efforts to stop, the aircraft was unable to halt within the remaining runway distance. It continued past the end of the paved surface and onto the grass overrun area. Upon impact with the ground, the nose wheel collapsed.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft revealed the root cause of the instrument failure. An insect had become lodged within the pitot system. This blockage prevented the airspeed indicator from receiving accurate pressure readings, rendering it inoperative and misleading for the pilot during the critical takeoff phase.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to abort the takeoff after noticing an inoperative airspeed indicator, which resulted in the aircraft running off the runway. The inoperability was caused by an insect obstructing the pitot system.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 29 Aug 1988 Cessna 182Q accident near St. Louis, MO?
A pilot aborted a night takeoff after noticing an inoperative airspeed indicator, but ran off the runway onto grass, collapsing the nose wheel.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Aug 1988 involved a Cessna 182Q, registration N97076, operated by James H. Reiman, at St. Louis, MO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to abort the takeoff after noticing an inoperative airspeed indicator, which resulted in the aircraft running off the runway. The inoperability was caused by an insect obstructing the pitot system.
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