Casualties unknown

Single-Engine Plane Hits Trees After Takeoff with Blocked Static Ports (N8283E)

Bemidji, MN, US

On November 2, 1991, a Cessna 172 (registration N8283E) operated by Thief River Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Bemidji, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT PLANNING AND PREPARATION BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND, THE NON PERFORMANCE O FAN EMERGENCY PROCEDURE AND NOT MAINTAINING A POSITIVE RATE OF CLIMB ON BEHALF OF THE PILOT IN COMMAND. 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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot took off at night with blowing snow and gusty winds despite airspeed indicator reading zero. The airplane struck trees and terrain about two miles from the airport. Investigation found ice blocking one static port and the alternate static source switch in standby.

Takeoff and Incident

The pilot of a single-engine airplane had just received an IFR clearance. The airplane performed an intersection takeoff at night with winds gusting to 30 knots and blowing snow. Just prior to rotation, the pilot observed the airspeed indicator displaying '0'. He decided to continue the takeoff because he believed insufficient runway remained for an aborted takeoff.

Post-Takeoff Events

After takeoff, the pilot stated that his other pressure instruments were not functioning properly. The airplane collided with trees and terrain approximately 2 miles from the airport's center.

On-Scene Investigation

An on-scene investigation revealed a slight trace of ice on the wings' leading edge. One of the two static ports was found with ice blocking it. The second static port was destroyed during the crash sequence. The alternate static source switch was found in the 'standby' position.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated, 'I figured I could use the alternate static source once I was up high enough to clear the trees.'

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Nov 1991 Cessna 172 accident near Bemidji, MN?

A pilot took off at night with blowing snow and gusty winds despite airspeed indicator reading zero. The airplane struck trees and terrain about two miles from the airport. Investigation found ice blocking one static port and the alternate static source switch in standby.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Nov 1991 involved a Cessna 172, registration N8283E, operated by Thief River Aviation, at Bemidji, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT PLANNING AND PREPARATION BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND, THE NON PERFORMANCE O FAN EMERGENCY PROCEDURE AND NOT MAINTAINING A POSITIVE RATE OF CLIMB ON BEHALF OF THE PILOT IN COMMAND. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S NOT REMOVING ICE FROM THE AIRPLANE, NOT OBTAINING…

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18427. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.