Casualties unknown

1994-04-22: Cessna 140 (N76545) — Kahle, Donald — Clarion, PA

Clarion, PA, US

On April 22, 1994, a Cessna 140 (registration N76545) operated by Kahle, Donald was involved in an aviation accident near Clarion, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WHICH RESULTED IN AN OVERRUN OF THE RUNWAY AND COLLISION WITH A BERM. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, the airplane veered left; pilot overcontrolled, causing further veering and runway excursion. The airplane rolled off left side, down an embankment, and nosed over, sustaining substantial damage. No mechanical deficiencies found.

Accident Summary

As the pilot initiated the takeoff roll, the airplane deviated to the left. In response, the pilot reported that he overcontrolled the airplane while attempting to correct its heading. This led to the airplane veering to the right, followed by another leftward deviation.

The pilot subsequently reduced throttle, but the airplane continued to track off the left side of the runway, descending an embankment. The airplane then nosed over, resulting in substantial damage.

Examination Findings

A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed no pre-impact mechanical deficiencies. The investigation focused on the pilot's control inputs during the takeoff roll.

Pilot Statement

The pilot acknowledged that his corrective actions were excessive, describing them as "overcontrol" during the heading correction attempt.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01053. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.