Casualties unknown

1995-07-01: Cessna 337G (N72168) — Brant, NY

Brant, NY, US

On July 1, 1995, a Cessna 337G (registration N72168) was involved in an aviation accident near Brant, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and proper airspeed during takeoff due to a sneeze, which resulted in a premature rotation and subsequent runway overrun. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, a pilot sneezed causing the aircraft to pitch up and rotate prematurely. The aborted takeoff resulted in an overrun into a utility pole with no injuries reported.

What happened

The incident occurred during the initial phase of takeoff on a grass strip. According to the pilot's account, a sudden sneeze caused an involuntary reaction that led to the aircraft pitching up and rotating before reaching the appropriate speed or altitude for a normal liftoff. Recognizing the unsafe flight path, the pilot immediately initiated a decision to abort the takeoff.

During this emergency deceleration maneuver, the airplane failed to stop within the available distance of the mowed grass surface. The aircraft continued forward, overrunning the end of the strip and colliding with a utility pole situated at the departure end of the runway.

The investigation

Following the accident, a detailed post-accident examination was conducted on the airplane to determine if any mechanical failures contributed to the event. Inspectors reviewed both the engine and the airframe for signs of pre-existing anomalies or malfunctions.

The examination revealed no anomalies with the engine or airframe. This finding confirmed that the aircraft's systems were functioning normally at the time of the incident, isolating the cause to the pilot's actions during the critical takeoff phase.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and proper airspeed during takeoff due to a sneeze, which resulted in a premature rotation and subsequent runway overrun.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04044. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.