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Aircraft Strikes Fence and Trees After Veering Off Grass Runway During Takeoff (N172JF)

Tuttle, OK, US

On October 5, 1996, a Cessna 172M (registration N172JF) operated by W.l. Frank was involved in an aviation accident near Tuttle, OK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the pilot to maintain directional control during takeoff roll, which resulted in a ground swerve. Factors relating to the accident were: tall grass along the edges of the runway, and the proximity of the fence, fence posts, and trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from a private sod airstrip, the airplane veered left and impacted fence posts and trees. Prior landing had minor propeller spinner damage from a transmission line. Grass along runway edges was reportedly long.

Landing and Pre-Departure

While approaching to land at a private airstrip, the airplane's spinner impacted a transmission line. Despite this, the pilot managed to land without further incident. After landing and clearing the 2,300-foot sod airstrip, the pilot checked the airplane for damage, finding only incidental damage to the propeller spinner. Following an engine inspection and a full engine runup, the pilot elected to depart the airstrip to the south.

Takeoff and Loss of Control

The pilot stated that as the airplane approached rotation speed during an up-slope takeoff roll, it started to veer to the left. He was unable to maintain directional control with opposite rudder. Subsequently, the airplane veered off the left side of the strip and impacted fence posts and trees.

Witness Observations

Witnesses reported that the grass along the edges of the runway was “long enough to drag a wheel down.”

Post-Recovery Examination

Post-recovery examination of the airframe confirmed flight control continuity to the rudder, elevators, and ailerons. Additionally, no anomalies were found with the nose wheel steering mechanism or brake system.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Oct 1996 Cessna 172M accident near Tuttle, OK?

During takeoff from a private sod airstrip, the airplane veered left and impacted fence posts and trees. Prior landing had minor propeller spinner damage from a transmission line. Grass along runway edges was reportedly long.

Were there any fatalities in the 5 Oct 1996 Cessna 172M accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Oct 1996 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N172JF, operated by W.l. Frank, at Tuttle, OK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

failure of the pilot to maintain directional control during takeoff roll, which resulted in a ground swerve. Factors relating to the accident were: tall grass along the edges of the runway, and the proximity of the fence, fence posts, and trees.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06874. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.