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Casualties unknown

Intersection Takeoff Ends with Aircraft Striking Trees (XBCHP)

Boerne, TX, US

On April 8, 1996, a Cessna 182Q (registration XBCHP) was involved in an aviation accident near Boerne, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper planning/decision, and his failure to use all of available runway. Factors relating to the accident were: the pilot's overconfidence in the ability of the airplane, the high density altitude, the tailwind, and trees at the departure end… 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

A pilot performing an intersection takeoff on Runway 35 with 600 feet remaining failed to clear trees beyond the departure end. The aircraft was heavier than usual and density altitude was 3,200 feet.

Accident Details

The pilot initiated an intersection takeoff on runway 35, using the last 600 feet of the runway to demonstrate the improved performance of the airplane following the installation of a new engine and propeller STC package. According to the pilot, this maneuver had been routinely performed in the past. However, on this occasion, the aircraft was considerably heavier due to the presence of a passenger and the addition of 75 gallons of fuel during servicing. The density altitude at the time was reported as 3,200 feet, and the winds were light from the south.

Sequence of Events

The pilot reported that once airborne, the airplane continued to accelerate but was unable to clear trees located past the departure end of the runway. The engine operation was reported as normal, and no mechanical anomalies were identified.

Investigation Details

No further analysis or conclusions are provided in the source material. The investigation focused on the facts as reported: the intersection takeoff, aircraft weight, density altitude, and the failure to clear obstacles.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Apr 1996 Cessna 182Q accident near Boerne, TX?

A pilot performing an intersection takeoff on Runway 35 with 600 feet remaining failed to clear trees beyond the departure end. The aircraft was heavier than usual and density altitude was 3,200 feet.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Apr 1996 involved a Cessna 182Q, registration XBCHP, at Boerne, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper planning/decision, and his failure to use all of available runway. Factors relating to the accident were: the pilot's overconfidence in the ability of the airplane, the high density altitude, the tailwind, and trees at the departure end of the runway.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05552. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.