No fatalities

Pilot Aborts Takeoff After Airplane Fails to Rotate, Impacts Fence (N80964)

Block Island, RI, US

On June 29, 1997, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N80964) was involved in an aviation accident near Block Island, RI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to comply with the airplane's takeoff checklist and his delayed decision to abort the takeoff. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 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

A pilot aborted takeoff after the airplane failed to rotate at 65 knots. The airplane rolled off the runway, down an embankment, and struck a chain link fence. No malfunctions were found, but the elevator trim was set 3/4 nose down.

Event Description

The pilot reported completing all preflight and pre-takeoff checklist items. During the takeoff roll, the airplane accelerated to 65 knots. When the pilot pulled back on the yoke, the airplane did not take off. The pilot aborted the takeoff by closing the throttle and applying the brakes. The airplane rolled off the departure end of the runway, traveled down an embankment, and struck a chain link fence, where it came to rest in an upright position.

Post-accident Examination

Examination of the runway revealed faint traces of rubber that corresponded to the wheel marks found in the grass leading to the airplane. The grass did not show indications of tearing or furrowing that would be consistent with heavy braking or skidding tires. No malfunctions or anomalies were found in either the airframe or the engine. The elevator trim was found to be set in a 3/4 nose-down position.

Additional Findings

No other factors were identified in the investigation. The pilot's account and physical evidence were consistent with a rejected takeoff that resulted in a runway excursion.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Jun 1997 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Block Island, RI?

A pilot aborted takeoff after the airplane failed to rotate at 65 knots. The airplane rolled off the runway, down an embankment, and struck a chain link fence. No malfunctions were found, but the elevator trim was set 3/4 nose down.

Were there any fatalities in the 29 Jun 1997 Piper PA-28-161 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Jun 1997 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N80964, at Block Island, RI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to comply with the airplane's takeoff checklist and his delayed decision to abort the takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08157. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.