On July 22, 1997, a Cessna 180 (registration N9320C) was involved in an aviation accident near Carlisle, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff roll (at night). This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An unauthorized non-certificated pilot lost control during a night takeoff roll, causing the airplane to veer off the runway. The airplane was later found abandoned. The pilot, the owner's 18-year-old son, had 6 hours of dual instruction but no solo endorsement.
Incident Description
During a night takeoff roll, a person who was neither certificated as a pilot nor authorized to operate the aircraft lost control of the airplane. The airplane swerved to the right and departed the runway, entering the grass alongside. Skid marks and ground scars indicated the loss of control, and the left wingtip and horizontal stabilizer dragged along the ground. Airport personnel discovered the airplane abandoned beside the runway when they arrived for work at 0530.
Investigation Findings
Local law enforcement personnel conducted an investigation into the incident. They determined that the individual flying the airplane was the 18-year-old son of the aircraft owner. The young man had received approximately 6 hours of dual flight instruction in that specific airplane. However, he had not been endorsed for solo flight by a certified flight instructor. The investigation did not indicate any other persons involved.