Casualties unknown

1995-09-09: Cessna 170 (N8233E) — Hartwell, GA

Hartwell, GA, US

On September 9, 1995, a Cessna 170 (registration N8233E) was involved in an aviation accident near Hartwell, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and colliding with trees. 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, the aircraft veered right off the runway and hit trees. The pilot tried to correct with left rudder. No mechanical issues were found.

What happened

The accident occurred during the initial phase of flight as the aircraft was accelerating for departure. While moving along the paved surface, the airplane drifted laterally to the right, leaving the confines of the runway. It subsequently impacted a line of trees located adjacent to the airfield boundary.

According to statements provided by the operator, he noticed the deviation and attempted to regain control by applying left rudder input. This corrective action was insufficient to prevent the collision with the vegetation.

The investigation

Following the incident, investigators conducted a thorough examination of the airplane to determine if equipment failure played a role in the departure from the runway. They inspected various systems and components for signs of malfunction or structural defects.

The technical review revealed no evidence of mechanical problems or system failures that could have contributed to the loss of directional control. The airframe and its operational systems appeared functional prior to the impact.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in the aircraft veering off the runway and colliding with trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04420. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.