Casualties unknown

Pilot aborts takeoff due to fuel leak on wet sod runway (N2535J)

Angela, MT, US

On June 4, 1994, a Cessna T188C (registration N2535J) operated by Pluhar, Dennis A. was involved in an aviation accident near Angela, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WAS NOT MAINTAINED. FACTORS TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: WET TERRAIN AND INADEQUATE AIRCRAFT PREFLIGHT. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot aborted takeoff after noticing a loose fuel cap and leaking fuel. The aircraft slid on the wet sod runway and ground looped before stopping.

What happened

During the initial phase of the takeoff ground roll, the pilot observed that the fuel cap located on the wing was not securely fastened. Fuel was actively leaking from the filler cap area. Recognizing the potential hazard, the pilot decided to abort the takeoff procedure and applied the aircraft brakes.

However, the runway surface consisted of sod which was wet at the time. The pilot reported that the braking action was ineffective under these conditions. As a result, the airplane began to slide uncontrollably along the ground. The aircraft eventually ground looped before finally coming to a complete stop.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01626. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.