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Casualties unknown

Takeoff Accident: Two Airborne Attempts Before Terrain Impact (N1892Z)

Columbia, PA, US

On November 29, 1996, a Cessna 205 (registration N1892Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Columbia, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to obtain/maintain airspeed, which resulted in an inadvertent stall, and collision with trees during the initial climb. A factor in the accident was a tailwind condition. 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, a witness reported a horn sound, the aircraft briefly returned to the runway, then became airborne again before impacting terrain. The pilot was heard saying he could not keep it airborne. Engine ran normally; FAA noted steep vertical descent through trees.

Event Overview

During the takeoff roll, the aircraft became airborne. A witness reported hearing a horn or buzzer. The aircraft then returned to the runway momentarily before becoming airborne again, after which it impacted terrain.

Witness Account

The witness stated that the pilot said, "Can't keep it in the air or something like that." The witness also reported that the engine was running and there were no noticeable changes in engine sound prior to impact.

FAA Inspector Observations

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector reported that the aircraft appeared to have fallen through the trees at a steep vertical angle.

Wind Conditions

Winds reported at airports 16 miles northwest of the accident site were from 280 degrees at 5 knots. Winds at an airport 11 miles east were from 290 degrees at 4 knots.

Loss of control in flightAerodynamic stall

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07051. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.