On June 4, 1995, a Cessna 180 (registration N3149D) was involved in an aviation accident near Clear Lake, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the pilot to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff roll. The proximity of trees to the runway was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported the airplane pulled hard right on power application, impacting trees. The right main landing gear collapsed; an upper bolt was found fractured due to overstress.
Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that the airplane 'pulled hard to the right upon application of power' and subsequently impacted evergreen trees on the right side of the runway. The passenger stated that during the occurrence, the airplane slid sideways to the right. According to the passenger, the right wing came up abruptly, then came down hard and struck a tree. A fire erupted, and the pilot received serious burns.
Landing Gear Failure
The right main landing gear collapsed. Examination revealed that the upper bolt in the landing gear assembly was fractured. Analysis of the bolt showed that it had failed in shear due to direct overstress loading. No other mechanical anomalies were reported in the source.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 4 Jun 1995 Cessna 180 accident near Clear Lake, MN?
A pilot reported the airplane pulled hard right on power application, impacting trees. The right main landing gear collapsed; an upper bolt was found fractured due to overstress.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Jun 1995 involved a Cessna 180, registration N3149D, at Clear Lake, MN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
failure of the pilot to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff roll. The proximity of trees to the runway was a related factor.
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