Casualties unknown

Cessna A188A Ag Wagon Strikes Trees During Takeoff from Soft Sod Strip (N6664G)

Felton, DE, US

On August 18, 1992, a Cessna A188A (registration N6664G) operated by John H. Brown was involved in an aviation accident near Felton, DE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO ABORT THE TAKEOFF AT A TIMELY POINT WHICH RESULTED IN AN INADEQUATE CLIMB RATE AN A COLLISION WITH TREES. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A Cessna A188A Ag Wagon, carrying 900 pounds of seed, struck trees 50 feet above ground during takeoff from a 3000-foot soft and wet sod strip after slow acceleration and insufficient runway remaining. The left wing remained in the trees while the fuselage and right wing fell to the ground.

Departure and Initial Conditions

A Cessna A188A Ag Wagon was preparing for a spray mission from a 3000-foot-long grass strip. The surface was described as soft and wet, and the aircraft was loaded with 900 pounds of seed. During the takeoff roll, the airplane was slow to accelerate.

Pilot Actions and Impact

The pilot indicated that he felt committed to continuing the takeoff when he judged there was insufficient runway remaining to abort the departure. The airplane continued and impacted trees at the departure end of the runway. The collision occurred at an elevation of 50 feet above the ground.

Post-Impact Condition

Following the impact, the left wing remained lodged in the trees. The fuselage, along with the right wing, detached and fell to the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15512. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.