Aircraft excursion during night takeoff roll

Casualties unknown • Carlisle, AR, US

An unauthorized pilot lost control of an aircraft during a night takeoff roll, causing the plane to veer off the runway and into the grass.

What happened

During a night takeoff roll, a non-certificated pilot lost control of the aircraft. The movement caused the airplane to swerve to the right and depart the runway into an area of grass. As the aircraft moved off the paved surface, the left wingtip and the horizontal stabilizer made contact with the ground.

Airport personnel discovered the aircraft abandoned beside the runway at 0530. An investigation by local law enforcement determined that the person operating the aircraft was the 18-year-old son of the airplane owner. While the individual had completed approximately 6 hours of dual instruction in the aircraft, he had not received an endorsement for solo flight and was not authorized to operate the plane.

Probable cause

The pilot, who was not certified or authorized to fly the aircraft, lost control during the takeoff roll, causing the airplane to veer off the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-07-22 Cessna 180 accident near Carlisle, AR?

An unauthorized pilot lost control of an aircraft during a night takeoff roll, causing the plane to veer off the runway and into the grass.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-07-22 involved a Cessna 180, registration N9320C, at Carlisle, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot, who was not certified or authorized to fly the aircraft, lost control during the takeoff roll, causing the airplane to veer off the runway.

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