On June 1, 1993, a Rockwell 114 (registration N116RC) operated by Maclin, Henry was involved in an aviation accident near Woodstock, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT PLANNING WHICH RESULTED IN HIS FAILURE TO ABORT THE TAKEOFF WHEN SUFFICIENT RUNWAY WAS AVAILABLE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot aborted takeoff on a sod runway due to insufficient acceleration; the aircraft overran the 3100-foot runway and collided with terrain. No mechanical problems were found.
Event Summary
During the takeoff roll on a sod strip, the pilot observed that the aircraft did not appear to accelerate sufficiently to execute a safe takeoff. In response, the pilot aborted the takeoff. However, the aircraft continued beyond the departure end of the runway and collided with terrain.
Aircraft and Runway Details
According to the aircraft flight manual, a normal takeoff from a dry sod runway at gross weight requires approximately 2100 feet of runway. The actual runway available was 3100 feet in length.
Investigation Findings
An examination of the aircraft revealed no mechanical problems. The pilot did not report any aircraft malfunctions before or during the aborted takeoff.