Aircraft Overruns Runway During Aborted Takeoff

Casualties unknown • Spencer, MA, US

A pilot aborted a takeoff attempt after becoming uncertain of clearing obstacles, resulting in the aircraft overrunning the runway and striking trees.

What happened

A flight was underway for a return cross-country trip involving a crew and three passengers, along with baggage and a full fuel load. During the takeoff roll on a 1,930-foot runway, the pilot reached the halfway point and became uncertain whether the aircraft would be able to clear trees located at the end of the runway.

As the aircraft reached approximately three-quarters of the way down the runway, the pilot reduced power to abort the takeoff. Following the reduction in power, the aircraft overran the departure end of the runway and impacted trees. At the time of the event, the airport elevation was 1,040 feet MSL and the outside air temperature was approximately 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

According to the Pilot Operating Handbook, the distance required for this specific takeoff to clear a 50-foot obstacle was approximately 1,900 feet.

Probable cause

The pilot aborted the takeoff attempt due to uncertainty regarding obstacle clearance, which resulted in the aircraft overrunning the runway departure end.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1993-06-28 Piper PA-32 accident near Spencer, MA?

A pilot aborted a takeoff attempt after becoming uncertain of clearing obstacles, resulting in the aircraft overrunning the runway and striking trees.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1993-06-28 involved a Piper PA-32, registration N3490W, operated by Thomas Worthington, at Spencer, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot aborted the takeoff attempt due to uncertainty regarding obstacle clearance, which resulted in the aircraft overrunning the runway departure end.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12711. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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