On October 21, 1995, a Cessna 172RG (registration N9412B) was involved in an aviation accident near Chester, CT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to attain adequate airspeed, and his delay in aborting the takeoff, which resulted in a runway overrun and collision with trees. Factors relating to the accident were: the wet runway and hydroplaning conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff on a wet runway, the pilot aborted due to slow acceleration. Despite braking and back pressure, the aircraft departed the runway, went down an embankment, and struck trees. No mechanical issues were reported; the aircraft was at maximum gross weight, a condition unfamiliar to the pilot.
Incident Overview
During the takeoff roll on a wet runway, the pilot decided to abort the takeoff because the airplane "accelerated slowly." The pilot attempted to stop the airplane by retarding the throttle to idle, applying maximum braking, and applying back pressure on the yoke. Despite these actions, the airplane did not stop and departed the runway just prior to the end. It then continued down a 30-foot embankment and struck trees.
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions.
Pilot Experience and Aircraft Conditions
According to an FAA inspector, the pilot's experience in this make and model of airplane was as a flight instructor with two persons on board and with less than full fuel. The inspector also reported that the airplane was at maximum gross weight at the time of the incident, a condition that the pilot had never experienced.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 21 Oct 1995 Cessna 172RG accident near Chester, CT?
During takeoff on a wet runway, the pilot aborted due to slow acceleration. Despite braking and back pressure, the aircraft departed the runway, went down an embankment, and struck trees. No mechanical issues were reported; the aircraft was at maximum gross weight, a condition unfamiliar to the pilot.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Oct 1995 Cessna 172RG accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Oct 1995 involved a Cessna 172RG, registration N9412B, at Chester, CT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to attain adequate airspeed, and his delay in aborting the takeoff, which resulted in a runway overrun and collision with trees. Factors relating to the accident were: the wet runway and hydroplaning conditions.