Casualties unknown

Flight Training Accident Results in Runway Excursion and Fire (N36085)

San Antonio, TX, US

On July 28, 1995, a Piper PA-28R-201 (registration N36085) was involved in an aviation accident near San Antonio, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The dual student's delay in aborting the takeoff. A factor was the flight instructor's inadequate supervision. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a training flight, a failed takeoff led to a runway excursion, impacting a fence and causing a fuel tank rupture and fire.

Incident Overview

A flight instructor and a private pilot dual student were conducting a short field landing practice. After the landing, the student retracted the flaps and applied full power for takeoff. The airplane lifted off but was unable to achieve a positive rate of climb.

Abort and Braking

The student decided to abort the takeoff. The flight instructor reported that the student unexpectedly retarded the throttle, landed, and began applying the brakes following normal training procedures. Within one to two seconds after landing, the instructor also applied full brakes. After a few more seconds, it became apparent that the aircraft was not slowing enough to stop before the end of the runway. The instructor stated that the best decision was to maintain control and go straight off the runway end.

Impact and Fire

The aircraft subsequently impacted a fence beyond the departure end of the runway. The collision ruptured the left fuel tank, causing the airplane to catch fire and burn.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jul 1995 Piper PA-28R-201 accident near San Antonio, TX?

During a training flight, a failed takeoff led to a runway excursion, impacting a fence and causing a fuel tank rupture and fire.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jul 1995 involved a Piper PA-28R-201, registration N36085, at San Antonio, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The dual student's delay in aborting the takeoff. A factor was the flight instructor's inadequate supervision.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03974. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.