Casualties unknown

Loss of directional control during takeoff results in gear collapse (N39527)

Willows, CA, US

On September 2, 1993, a Piper PA-32RT-300T (registration N39527) was involved in an aviation accident near Willows, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which led to a loss of control and subsequent ground loop. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot lost directional control during the takeoff roll, applying full rudder without success. The aircraft veered off the runway, ground looped, and sustained landing gear damage.

What happened

The incident occurred during the initial phase of flight as the aircraft accelerated down the runway for departure. According to the pilot's account, directional control was lost while still on the ground roll. The aircraft began to turn sharply to the left despite corrective inputs.

In an attempt to counteract the yaw and maintain the runway centerline, the pilot applied full right rudder. However, these efforts proved ineffective in regaining control of the aircraft's heading. Unable to stop the deviation, the aircraft veered off the paved surface.

Once off the runway, the aircraft ground looped, causing significant structural stress on the undercarriage. The landing gear sheared off during this uncontrolled maneuver, resulting in substantial damage to the lower fuselage and support structures.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which led to a loss of control and subsequent ground loop.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Sept 1993 Piper PA-32RT-300T accident near Willows, CA?

A pilot lost directional control during the takeoff roll, applying full rudder without success. The aircraft veered off the runway, ground looped, and sustained landing gear damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Sept 1993 involved a Piper PA-32RT-300T, registration N39527, at Willows, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which led to a loss of control and subsequent ground loop.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13418. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.