Aircraft collision with tree following premature liftoff

Casualties unknown • Greenwood, MS, US

An aircraft became airborne prematurely during a takeoff roll on a runway with an elevation rise, resulting in a collision with a tree and a subsequent post-crash fire.

What happened

During the takeoff roll, the airplane encountered a rise in the runway surface. The pilot was previously aware of this rise in the runway profile; however, the aircraft became airborne prematurely during the roll.

In an attempt to manage the situation, the pilot initiated the dumping of the chemical load and attempted to establish a climb. Despite these efforts, the aircraft collided with a tree located approximately 200 feet beyond the departure end of the runway. Following the collision, the airplane impacted the ground, at which point the right main landing gear was sheared off after the aircraft contacted a ditch. The impact caused the airplane to become inverted, and it was subsequently destroyed by a post-crash fire.

The pilot was not injured. During an interview with an FAA inspector, the pilot noted that he and the aircraft owner had intended to repair the runway and clear the trees at the end of the spraying season. The pilot also reported that there were no malfunctions or failures involving the engine or airframe prior to the impact.

Probable cause

The premature liftoff caused by a rise in the runway surface, which led to a collision with an obstacle beyond the runway end.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-09-30 Cessna A188B accident near Greenwood, MS?

An aircraft became airborne prematurely during a takeoff roll on a runway with an elevation rise, resulting in a collision with a tree and a subsequent post-crash fire.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-09-30 involved a Cessna A188B, registration N731RP, at Greenwood, MS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The premature liftoff caused by a rise in the runway surface, which led to a collision with an obstacle beyond the runway end.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08904. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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