Casualties unknown

1991-01-10: Piper PA-28-181 (N8309H) — Four Winds Aviation — Ramona, CA

Ramona, CA, US

On January 10, 1991, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N8309H) operated by Four Winds Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Ramona, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE DURING AN ATTEMPTED TAKEOFF. A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR WAS RELATED TO THE STUDENT'S IMPROPER USE OF RUDDER CONTROL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 11 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot veered off a runway during a third takeoff attempt and collided with a small hill. The pilot reported applying more than normal rudder pressure. Post-accident inspection found brakes and flight controls functional.

Accident Details

The incident occurred during a training session involving a student pilot. The runway used for the maneuvers was 150 feet wide and 4,000 feet long. The student had successfully completed two practice takeoffs and landings prior to the accident. During the third attempted takeoff, the airplane deviated from the runway centerline, veered off the side, and struck a small hill.

Pilot Report

The student pilot later reported that while the airplane was rolling for takeoff, he attempted to correct its course by applying what he described as "more than normal" rudder pressure. Despite this effort, he was unable to keep the airplane on the runway.

Aircraft Inspection

An examination of the airplane after the accident found that the brakes and flight controls were functioning normally and were capable of performing as designed.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16332. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.