Casualties unknown

Aircraft Drifts and Collides with Tree During Takeoff (N7061R)

Williamson, GA, US

On August 24, 1996, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N7061R) was involved in an aviation accident near Williamson, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot held aft elevator control during takeoff. 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 takeoff, the pilot held aft elevator control, causing the aircraft to drift right. Corrections led to left drift, unsuccessful correction, aborted takeoff, left wing contacted brush, veered left, collided with a tree.

Event Summary

During the takeoff roll, the pilot maintained aft elevator control. The aircraft subsequently deviated to the right of the runway centerline. The pilot then applied correction to the left, but the aircraft continued to drift leftward. Further attempts to correct the drift proved unsuccessful, leading the pilot to abort the takeoff.

Sequence of Events

As the aircraft continued left, the left wing made contact with brush located off the left side of the runway. This contact caused the aircraft to veer further left. The aircraft then collided with a tree off the left side of the runway and came to rest.

Probable cause

The pilot held aft elevator control during takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Aug 1996 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Williamson, GA?

During takeoff, the pilot held aft elevator control, causing the aircraft to drift right. Corrections led to left drift, unsuccessful correction, aborted takeoff, left wing contacted brush, veered left, collided with a tree.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Aug 1996 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N7061R, at Williamson, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot held aft elevator control during takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06585. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.