On August 28, 1994, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N1197X) operated by D. Ringgenberg/r. Meisen was involved in an aviation accident near Jackson, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff and his delay in aborting the takeoff. Factors in the accident were the soft terrain and the ditch. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot aborted takeoff after the airplane dug into a soft, wet sod runway, became briefly airborne, then settled back. The aircraft came to rest in a ravine at the runway end.
Event Summary
A pilot reported that all preflight weight and balance calculations were within limits for the planned one-hour flight with five persons aboard. This was confirmed by an FAA inspector.
Takeoff Attempt
During the takeoff roll, the pilot stated that he felt the airplane digging into the soft, wet sod runway. The airplane became airborne briefly but then settled back down onto the runway. The pilot decided to abort the takeoff.
Final Position
The airplane came to rest in a ravine located at the end of the runway. The pilot stated that he did not realize the runway was so soft from the amount of rain that the local area had received recently.
Mechanical Condition
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical anomalies.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 28 Aug 1994 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Jackson, MN?
A pilot aborted takeoff after the airplane dug into a soft, wet sod runway, became briefly airborne, then settled back. The aircraft came to rest in a ravine at the runway end.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 28 Aug 1994 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N1197X, operated by D. Ringgenberg/r. Meisen, at Jackson, MN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for takeoff and his delay in aborting the takeoff. Factors in the accident were the soft terrain and the ditch.
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