On April 2, 1994, a Gulfstream American AA-5B (registration N28224) operated by Kamp Air Aviation Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Oneonta, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING TAKEOFF. A RELATED FACTOR WAS THE CROSSWIND COMPONENT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot reported losing directional control during takeoff, causing the airplane to veer left and overrun the runway into a snowbank. No mechanical malfunction was found.
Accident Details
A student pilot was conducting a takeoff roll when the airplane veered left as it was about to lift off. Despite application of right rudder and brake, the pilot was unable to regain directional control. The airplane subsequently overran the left side of the runway and struck a snowbank.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported his belief that a problem with the left wheel or brake may have caused the loss of control.
Examination Findings
An FAA aviation safety inspector examined the airplane and disclosed no evidence of mechanical malfunction.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the accident, there was a 90-degree left crosswind at 14 knots with gusts to 20 knots.