Casualties unknown

Runway excursion during takeoff results in right main gear failure (N9879V)

Cut Bank, MT, US

On June 22, 1994, a Cessna A188 (registration N9879V) operated by H&h Aircraft Leasing, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Cut Bank, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in the right main wheel dropping into a ditch and subsequent separation of the right wheel strut. 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

During a road takeoff with a left quartering tailwind, the aircraft drifted right into a ditch, causing the right wheel strut to separate.

What happened

The pilot initiated a takeoff northbound on a two-lane paved road. Conditions included a left quartering tailwind. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft began to drift to the right. The right main wheel dropped into a ditch alongside the road. Shortly after contact with the ditch, the right wheel strut separated.

The investigation

A post-crash examination was conducted on the separated component. Analysis of the fracture surface revealed no evidence of fatigue. The failure appeared to be immediate and caused by the impact forces rather than a pre-existing structural defect.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in the right main wheel dropping into a ditch and subsequent separation of the right wheel strut.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01631. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.