Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Wind Shear After Aircraft Strikes Tree During Takeoff (N5868B)

Berea, KY, US

On April 2, 1994, a Cessna 182A (registration N5868B) operated by Thunderbird Sport Parachute CL was involved in an aviation accident near Berea, KY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED DURING THE TAKEOFF. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT IS THE GUSTY WIND CONDITIONS. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot and four parachutists were on board when the airplane encountered wind shear after rotation, drifted into a runway-edge tree. The pilot reported no mechanical issues but regretted taking off in high winds.

Incident Overview

A private pilot and four parachutists were aboard a general aviation airplane as it taxied for takeoff. Wind conditions at the time were reported between 14 and 16 knots. The pilot stated that after adding full power, the airplane achieved flying speed, rotated, and began a climb. Shortly thereafter, the airplane encountered wind shear, causing the pilot to lose control. The aircraft subsequently drifted into a tree located on the western edge of the runway.

Pilot Statement

The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions. In his account, he stated that he should not have initiated the flight because of the high wind conditions. No other details regarding the flight's preparation or execution were provided by the pilot.

Operational Context

The flight involved parachute operations, as indicated by the presence of four parachutists on board. The takeoff was conducted under reported wind speeds of 14 to 16 knots. The tree struck was situated on the western side of the runway. No information was given regarding the aircraft type, registration, or the extent of damage to the airplane or tree.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Apr 1994 Cessna 182A accident near Berea, KY?

A private pilot and four parachutists were on board when the airplane encountered wind shear after rotation, drifted into a runway-edge tree. The pilot reported no mechanical issues but regretted taking off in high winds.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Apr 1994 involved a Cessna 182A, registration N5868B, operated by Thunderbird Sport Parachute CL, at Berea, KY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED DURING THE TAKEOFF. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT IS THE GUSTY WIND CONDITIONS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01041. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.