On September 3, 1994, a Cessna T210L (registration N732DT) operated by Willie Alves Rodrigues was involved in an aviation accident near Kettleman City, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during takeoff due to sun glare, which resulted in the aircraft drifting off the runway and colliding with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost visual reference during rotation due to direct sunlight, causing the aircraft to drift off the runway and strike nearby trees.
What happened
The accident occurred during the takeoff phase of a flight. According to the pilot's account, the primary factor leading to the incident was intense glare from the sun. As the aircraft rotated on the ground roll, the direct sunlight significantly impaired the pilot's vision.
This loss of visual reference caused the airplane to drift away from the runway centerline. Instead of maintaining the intended flight path, the aircraft departed the paved surface and collided with a group of trees located adjacent to the runway. The pilot noted that surface winds were calm at the time. He indicated that he could have elected to take off toward the west to avoid the sun but chose to proceed in the direction of the glare instead.
The investigation
Examination of the site confirmed the aircraft's departure from the runway centerline during the initial climbout. The impact with the vegetation was consistent with the pilot's statement regarding the loss of visual cues due to solar glare.
Findings
pilot error in judgment regarding takeoff direction despite available alternatives
solar glare causing temporary blindness or reduced visibility during rotation
loss of directional control resulting in collision with terrain obstacles
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during takeoff due to sun glare, which resulted in the aircraft drifting off the runway and colliding with trees.