Casualties unknown

Airplane Veers Off Runway During Takeoff, Strikes Tree (N57472)

Bally, PA, US

On July 12, 1992, a Bellanca 7GCBC (registration N57472) operated by Kutztown Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Bally, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT FAILED TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING TAKEOFF. 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

During takeoff on Runway 34, the airplane veered right, struck a dirt mound, became briefly airborne, then hit a 20-foot tree. FAA examination found no mechanical or flight control malfunctions.

Accident Description

An airplane veered off the right side of Runway 34 during takeoff. After departing the runway, the aircraft struck a dirt mound, became briefly airborne in a nose-high, low-speed attitude, and then struck a 20-foot tree before falling to the ground.

Pilot Account

According to the pilot, during the takeoff roll the airplane veered to the right. He attempted to compensate by applying left rudder and some left brake, but these actions were unsuccessful in correcting the deviation.

Examination

An examination of the airplane by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) did not disclose evidence of any mechanical or flight control malfunction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Jul 1992 Bellanca 7GCBC accident near Bally, PA?

During takeoff on Runway 34, the airplane veered right, struck a dirt mound, became briefly airborne, then hit a 20-foot tree. FAA examination found no mechanical or flight control malfunctions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Jul 1992 involved a Bellanca 7GCBC, registration N57472, operated by Kutztown Aviation, at Bally, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT FAILED TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING TAKEOFF.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15067. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.