Casualties unknown

Airplane Strikes Transmission Line During Initial Climb (N1412F)

Cherry Tree, PA, US

On July 8, 1996, a Cessna 172H (registration N1412F) was involved in an aviation accident near Cherry Tree, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to assure that adequate takeoff distance was available to clear an obstacle. 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

After a short field takeoff, an airplane struck the top wire of a transmission line during initial climb, causing a left turn and impact with the ground.

Accident Overview

The airplane involved in the accident had been landed by another pilot in a nearby field earlier that day due to fuel exhaustion. The accident pilot subsequently added 10 gallons of fuel before conducting a preflight inspection.

Preflight and Takeoff

The pilot's preflight included determining the takeoff distance and the airplane's weight and balance. He also paced off the road and checked for any obstructions that could interfere with the takeoff roll. An engine runup was performed before departure. The pilot reported using the short field takeoff procedure, and the takeoff roll proceeded normally.

Initial Climb and Impact

During the initial climb, the airplane struck the top wire of a transmission line. This collision caused the airplane to turn left and subsequently impact the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Jul 1996 Cessna 172H accident near Cherry Tree, PA?

After a short field takeoff, an airplane struck the top wire of a transmission line during initial climb, causing a left turn and impact with the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Jul 1996 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N1412F, at Cherry Tree, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to assure that adequate takeoff distance was available to clear an obstacle.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06342. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.