On October 4, 1993, a Cessna 177A (registration N30365) operated by Singler, Robert F. was involved in an aviation accident near LA Sal, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S FAILURE TO ABORT THE TAKEOFF. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE HIGH (10,000 FOOT) DENSITY ALTITUDE AND THE FENCE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff from a 2600-foot dirt airstrip, an aircraft became airborne three times before settling back, then collided with a fence and nosed over. Density altitude was estimated at 10,000 feet.
Accident Details
A pilot initiated a takeoff from a 2600-foot long dirt airstrip. The wind was calm and the outside air temperature was between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft became airborne on three occasions but each time settled back to the runway. Ultimately, the aircraft traveled beyond the upwind end of the runway, collided with a fence, and nosed over.
Conditions
The density altitude at the accident site was estimated at 10,000 feet. No other weather conditions were specified.
Sequence of Events
The takeoff roll proceeded under calm wind conditions. The aircraft lifted off and settled back to the runway three times before continuing off the airstrip. After exiting the runway, it struck a fence and nosed over. The extent of damage or injuries was not reported in the source.