Casualties unknown

Takeoff from Grass Strip Ends in Sugar Cane Field (N9772G)

Edgard, LA, US

On June 25, 1993, a Cessna A188B (registration N9772G) was involved in an aviation accident near Edgard, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The airplane would not climb due to high gross weight and warm temperatures. 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

During a takeoff from a grass strip with 200 gallons of chemical and three-quarters fuel, the airplane failed to sustain a climb, struck sugar cane crops, and came to rest in the field. The pilot reported no mechanical issues but cited high gross weight and warm temperatures.

Accident Details

The pilot attempted to take off from a grass strip. The airplane was loaded with 200 gallons of chemical and a fuel tank filled to three-quarters capacity. During the initial climb, the pilot reported that the airplane could not sustain its ascent. The aircraft subsequently struck sugar cane crops and came to rest in the cane field. The temperature at the time of the accident was 84 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane. He attributed the inability to climb to the combination of high gross weight and warm temperatures. The pilot's report indicated that these factors prevented the airplane from achieving the necessary climb performance.

Probable cause

The airplane would not climb due to high gross weight and warm temperatures.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12627. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.