On August 15, 1992, a Cessna 182R (registration N5446N) operated by Anderson, Jeff E. was involved in an aviation accident near Litchfield, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and adequate airspeed during takeoff after the left wing contacted corn along the runway margin. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During the takeoff roll, an aircraft's left wing extended into adjacent corn, causing drag and loss of directional control. The pilot was unable to accelerate or maintain runway alignment, resulting in a nose-over incident.
What happened
The accident occurred during the initial phase of a takeoff run. As the aircraft began its acceleration along the runway, the left wing extended beyond the paved surface and made contact with the corn growing along the margin of the airfield. Despite this obstruction, the pilot continued to attempt the takeoff. The physical resistance from the corn significantly impeded the aircraft's ability to accelerate to rotation speed. Consequently, directional control was lost, and the nose of the airplane collapsed downward onto the ground.
The investigation
Examination of the event narrative indicates that the primary mechanical issue was not a failure of the airframe or propulsion system, but rather an external obstruction encountered during the critical takeoff phase. The structural damage was consistent with the nose-over impact following the loss of control.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and adequate airspeed during takeoff after the left wing contacted corn along the runway margin.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 15 Aug 1992 Cessna 182R accident near Litchfield, MI?
During the takeoff roll, an aircraft's left wing extended into adjacent corn, causing drag and loss of directional control. The pilot was unable to accelerate or maintain runway alignment, resulting in a nose-over incident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Aug 1992 involved a Cessna 182R, registration N5446N, operated by Anderson, Jeff E., at Litchfield, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and adequate airspeed during takeoff after the left wing contacted corn along the runway margin.
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