Casualties unknown

Student Pilot and Novice Instructor Involved in Takeoff Accident (N3773L)

Wilkes-barre, PA, US

On October 16, 1995, a Cessna 172G (registration N3773L) was involved in an aviation accident near Wilkes-barre, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the instructor's inadequate supervision of the flight. Contributing factors were the instructor's inexperience and the student pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control. 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 student pilot and his instructor experienced a loss of control on takeoff, resulting in the aircraft cartwheeling after the left wingtip struck the ground. No mechanical issues were found.

Background

The flight instructor and student pilot had completed two takeoffs and landings without incident. The student pilot had a total of 27 hours of flight experience, and this was his first flight in this make and model of airplane. The flight instructor had been initially certificated as an instructor four days prior to the accident, and this flight was his first as an instructor.

Accident Sequence

During the third takeoff, the airplane began to drift to the left. The student pilot stated that there was a problem with the controls. In response, the flight instructor stated that the controls were alright and that there was a crosswind. As the airplane began to roll to the left, the flight instructor took over the controls. Subsequently, the airplane's left wing tip struck the ground, and the airplane cartwheeled.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the wreckage revealed no mechanical problem with the airplane. Winds at a nearby airport were reported to be from 250 degrees at 14 knots, gusting to 24 knots.

Probable Cause

None stated in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Oct 1995 Cessna 172G accident near Wilkes-barre, PA?

During a training flight, a student pilot and his instructor experienced a loss of control on takeoff, resulting in the aircraft cartwheeling after the left wingtip struck the ground. No mechanical issues were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Oct 1995 involved a Cessna 172G, registration N3773L, at Wilkes-barre, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the instructor's inadequate supervision of the flight. Contributing factors were the instructor's inexperience and the student pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04772. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.