Casualties unknown

1989-08-06: Cessna 177B (N35131) — Fort Gaines, GA

Fort Gaines, GA, US

On August 6, 1989, a Cessna 177B (registration N35131) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Gaines, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT FAILED TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE DURING TAKEOFF, WHICH RESULTED IN A COLLISION WITH TREES ADJACENT TO THE RUNWAY. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot landed on a grass strip to calm an upset child on his first flight, then during a second departure attempt the airplane drifted right and struck a tree with its right wing. No mechanical malfunctions reported.

Introduction

A pilot executed an unscheduled landing to soothe a distressed child who was experiencing his first airplane ride. After calming the child, the pilot reboarded the airplane and attempted to depart from a grass strip designated Runway 19.

Sequence of Events

According to the pilot's report, during the initial takeoff climb, the airplane settled back onto the runway before lifting off again. On the second takeoff, the pilot allowed the airplane to drift to the right during the initial climb, resulting in the right wing striking a tree.

Weather Conditions

The pilot reported the wind as from the west at one knot. The nearest weather reporting facility, located 40 nautical miles east, recorded wind at 240 degrees at five knots.

Aircraft and Mechanical Status

The pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29033. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.