On June 1, 1996, a Cessna 120 (registration N2965N) operated by Lynn L. Harden was involved in an aviation accident near Rimrock, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's delay in aborting the takeoff, and his excessive use of brakes while decelerating the airplane during the aborted takeoff. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A tailwheel airplane nosed over after the pilot aborted a takeoff on a 2,471-foot rough turf runway when the aircraft failed to accelerate beyond 40-45 MPH. Post-accident inspection revealed the airplane was 32 pounds over max gross weight.
Accident Details
The pilot attempted to take off from a 2,471-foot-long rough turf runway. According to the pilot, the takeoff proceeded normally until the airplane reached a speed of 40 to 45 MPH, at which point it failed to accelerate further. Unable to gain sufficient speed or become airborne by the point on the runway where he typically achieved takeoff, the pilot aborted the takeoff and applied brakes. The tailwheel-equipped airplane then nosed over onto its back approximately 200 feet short of the runway end.
Weight and Airport Information
Following the accident, an FAA inspector determined that the airplane was 32 pounds over its maximum gross weight. The U.S. Government and Washington state airport directories indicated that the unattended airport was closed from October 1 through June 1. The density altitude at the airport was calculated to be 3,424 feet.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 1 Jun 1996 Cessna 120 accident near Rimrock, WA?
A tailwheel airplane nosed over after the pilot aborted a takeoff on a 2,471-foot rough turf runway when the aircraft failed to accelerate beyond 40-45 MPH. Post-accident inspection revealed the airplane was 32 pounds over max gross weight.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Jun 1996 involved a Cessna 120, registration N2965N, operated by Lynn L. Harden, at Rimrock, WA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's delay in aborting the takeoff, and his excessive use of brakes while decelerating the airplane during the aborted takeoff. Factors relating to the accident were: the pilot's loading the airplane above its maximum gross weight, high density altitude, and the rough surface of the runway.
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