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Aircraft Veers Left During Takeoff, Strikes Two Parked Planes (N7921S)

Van Nuys, CA, US

On January 27, 1998, a Bellanca 8KCAB (registration N7921S) operated by Warren E. Leavitt Jr. was involved in an aviation accident near Van Nuys, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's inadequate compensation for the existing crosswind condition and failure to maintain directional control. A related factor was the crosswind. 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

An aircraft veered left during takeoff roll despite full right rudder, departed the runway, crossed grass and a taxiway, then struck two parked aircraft on the ramp. Winds were from 090 degrees at 7 knots. No mechanical issues were found with brakes or flight controls.

Accident Overview

During the takeoff roll, the aircraft unexpectedly pulled hard to the left. The pilot applied full right rudder in an attempt to counteract the deviation, but the aircraft continued to veer off the runway. It crossed a grass area and a taxiway before proceeding onto a ramp, where it collided with two parked aircraft. The pilot was unable to stop before impact.

Wind Conditions

At the time of the accident, the wind was reported from 090 degrees at 7 knots.

On-Scene Examination

An on-site inspection of the aircraft revealed no mechanical difficulties with the brakes. Additionally, flight control continuity was established, indicating no failures in the control systems.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Jan 1998 Bellanca 8KCAB accident near Van Nuys, CA?

An aircraft veered left during takeoff roll despite full right rudder, departed the runway, crossed grass and a taxiway, then struck two parked aircraft on the ramp. Winds were from 090 degrees at 7 knots. No mechanical issues were found with brakes or flight controls.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Jan 1998 Bellanca 8KCAB accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Jan 1998 involved a Bellanca 8KCAB, registration N7921S, operated by Warren E. Leavitt Jr., at Van Nuys, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's inadequate compensation for the existing crosswind condition and failure to maintain directional control. A related factor was the crosswind.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X09468. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.