On December 26, 1993, a Cessna 175 (registration N6623E) operated by Hoyt A. Phelps was involved in an aviation accident near Peoria, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to attain sufficient altitude following takeoff. A factor in the accident was the pilot's failure to use all available runway for takeoff. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Witnesses reported the pilot used an intersection for takeoff on a 2,000-foot runway, leaving 1,200-1,400 ft usable. After climbing 30-60 ft, the airplane's pitch lowered, it struck a fence and cactus, and came to rest 1/4 mile away. No mechanical issues were found.
Event Description
According to witness reports, the pilot taxied onto the runway from an intersection, which reduced the available takeoff distance. The runway was 2,000 feet long, but the pilot had only 1,200 to 1,400 feet of usable runway from the chosen starting point. The airplane's ground roll and initial climb appeared normal, with no unusual observations. After achieving an altitude between 30 and 60 feet, the airplane's nose lowered, and it stopped climbing. The aircraft then descended, and its landing gear struck a chainlink fence and a cactus at the perimeter of the airfield. The airplane traveled beyond the fence and came to rest about a quarter-mile from the airstrip.
Investigation Findings
Following the accident, the airplane was recovered and subjected to a thorough examination. The inspection concluded that no mechanical discrepancies were present in any airplane system or the engine. The operation of the aircraft systems was found to be normal.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 26 Dec 1993 Cessna 175 accident near Peoria, AZ?
Witnesses reported the pilot used an intersection for takeoff on a 2,000-foot runway, leaving 1,200-1,400 ft usable. After climbing 30-60 ft, the airplane's pitch lowered, it struck a fence and cactus, and came to rest 1/4 mile away. No mechanical issues were found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Dec 1993 involved a Cessna 175, registration N6623E, operated by Hoyt A. Phelps, at Peoria, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's failure to attain sufficient altitude following takeoff. A factor in the accident was the pilot's failure to use all available runway for takeoff.