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Casualties unknown

Intersection Takeoff Ends in Collision with Trees (N8322B)

St. Elmo, AL, US

On June 16, 1993, a Cessna 172 (registration N8322B) operated by Cutts, Cathy G. was involved in an aviation accident near St. Elmo, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE CLEARANCE FROM THE TREES LOCATED NEAR THE DEPARTURE END OF THE RUNWAY. FACTORS WERE THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO USE THE ENTIRE RUNWAY FOR THE TAKEOFF, AND THE TREES LOCATED NEAR THE DEPARTURE END OF THE RUNWAY. 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 commercial pilot conducting an intersection takeoff on a 4,000-foot runway collided with trees after a steep right turn. Witness heard engine running until impact; no mechanical issues found.

Accident Overview

A commercial pilot performed an intersection takeoff on a 4,000-foot runway, with approximately 1,500 feet of runway remaining. Shortly after departure, a witness observed the aircraft in a steep, right-hand turn. The witness then heard the sound of the crash and reported that the engine was still running until the moment of ground impact.

Site and Wreckage Examination

Examination of the accident site revealed that the aircraft struck trees located about 1,000 feet beyond the departure end of the runway. An inspection of the wreckage confirmed positive flight control continuity. No evidence of any powerplant malfunction or failure was discovered during the investigation.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that he could not remember any events regarding the accident flight. No further details were provided by the pilot.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jun 1993 Cessna 172 accident near St. Elmo, AL?

A commercial pilot conducting an intersection takeoff on a 4,000-foot runway collided with trees after a steep right turn. Witness heard engine running until impact; no mechanical issues found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jun 1993 involved a Cessna 172, registration N8322B, operated by Cutts, Cathy G., at St. Elmo, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE CLEARANCE FROM THE TREES LOCATED NEAR THE DEPARTURE END OF THE RUNWAY. FACTORS WERE THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO USE THE ENTIRE RUNWAY FOR THE TAKEOFF, AND THE TREES LOCATED NEAR THE DEPARTURE END OF THE RUNWAY.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12536. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.