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Aircraft Fails to Gain Altitude During Takeoff from Short Grass Strip (N3345T)

Decatur, IN, US

On May 12, 1991, a Cessna 177 (registration N3345T) operated by Clark Smith/ Ralph Biggs was involved in an aviation accident near Decatur, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to attain positive lift-off speed during takeoff on a short, sod-covered runway with tall vegetation and high temperatures. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft failed to achieve positive lift during takeoff on a short, sod-covered runway due to high temperatures and tall vegetation, resulting in substantial damage to the horizontal stabilator.

What happened

The pilot reported that while attempting to take off from a short strip covered with sod, the aircraft was unable to attain the necessary positive lift-off or climb speed. Consequently, the plane settled back onto the terrain. At the time of the incident, the air temperature was recorded at 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The runway surface consisted of vegetation approximately 5 to 6 inches tall, which likely contributed to the performance issues.

The investigation

A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have prevented flight. The only damage identified was substantial damage to the horizontal stabilator, consistent with the reported settlement back to the ground.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to attain positive lift-off speed during takeoff on a short, sod-covered runway with tall vegetation and high temperatures.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 May 1991 Cessna 177 accident near Decatur, IN?

An aircraft failed to achieve positive lift during takeoff on a short, sod-covered runway due to high temperatures and tall vegetation, resulting in substantial damage to the horizontal stabilator.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 May 1991 involved a Cessna 177, registration N3345T, operated by Clark Smith/ Ralph Biggs, at Decatur, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to attain positive lift-off speed during takeoff on a short, sod-covered runway with tall vegetation and high temperatures.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16948. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.