On September 14, 1991, a Cessna 152U (registration N24509) operated by Hanover Aviation Company was involved in an aviation accident near Burnt Chimney, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to gain altitude after takeoff from a short, uphill grass runway, resulting in a collision with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot attempting a short-field takeoff from a 1,800-foot uphill grass strip failed to gain altitude and struck trees shortly after liftoff. The aircraft remained within weight and balance limits.
What happened
The pilot initiated a short-field takeoff procedure from a runway measuring 1,800 feet in length with an uphill gradient. The surface was short grass, marking the first time the pilot had ever departed from such a strip. Following lift-off, the aircraft was unable to gain sufficient altitude and subsequently collided with trees located in the departure path.
The investigation
Examination of the flight parameters confirmed that the aircraft was being operated within its established weight and balance limitations at the time of the incident.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to gain altitude after takeoff from a short, uphill grass runway, resulting in a collision with trees.
What happened in the 14 Sept 1991 Cessna 152U accident near Burnt Chimney, VA?
A pilot attempting a short-field takeoff from a 1,800-foot uphill grass strip failed to gain altitude and struck trees shortly after liftoff. The aircraft remained within weight and balance limits.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Sept 1991 involved a Cessna 152U, registration N24509, operated by Hanover Aviation Company, at Burnt Chimney, VA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inability to gain altitude after takeoff from a short, uphill grass runway, resulting in a collision with trees.
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