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Stearman and Cessna Collision on Runway 31 (N49760)

Elkton, MD, US

On October 5, 1997, a Boeing Stearman PT-17 (registration N49760) was involved in an aviation accident near Elkton, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inadequate lookout by the pilot of the Cessna and his failure to maintain adequate clearance between his airplane and the active runway. A factor in the accident was the lack of taxiway hold signs or lines. 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

A tail-wheeled Stearman struck a parked Cessna during takeoff roll on runway 31 at a turf airport. Video footage documented the collision sequence and the absence of hold markings.

Incident Details

A pilot of a tail-wheeled Stearman performed a run-up at the approach end of the runway in the run-up area and waited for an airplane to land. The pilot then taxied onto runway 31 and began the takeoff roll.

Observations from Video

A videotape of the accident showed the Stearman was positioned to the right of the runway centerline, but its main landing wheels remained on the runway surface. The same video revealed a Cessna parked with its engine and propeller near the runway edge, oriented at approximately 160 to 170 degrees, with its right wing extending over the runway.

Collision Sequence

During the takeoff roll, after the Stearman's tail lifted, its right wings struck the nose of the Cessna. Subsequently, the nose of the Stearman struck the right wing of the Cessna.

Airport Infrastructure

The turf taxiway lacked taxiway or runway hold signs, as well as hold lines.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Oct 1997 Boeing Stearman PT-17 accident near Elkton, MD?

A tail-wheeled Stearman struck a parked Cessna during takeoff roll on runway 31 at a turf airport. Video footage documented the collision sequence and the absence of hold markings.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Oct 1997 involved a Boeing Stearman PT-17, registration N49760, at Elkton, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The inadequate lookout by the pilot of the Cessna and his failure to maintain adequate clearance between his airplane and the active runway. A factor in the accident was the lack of taxiway hold signs or lines.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09103. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.