On February 10, 1998, a Cessna 152 (registration N25952) was involved in an aviation accident near Georgetown, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's decision to attempt a takeoff from an unsuitable area of roadway, following a forced landing after the engine had lost power, due to fuel exhaustion; and his failure to maintain clearance from obstructions, while attempting the takeoff. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a previous flight, engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion, resulting in a forced landing. After refueling, pilot attempted takeoff on a road; aircraft struck a sign, then a telephone pole, and was consumed by postcrash fire.
Background
During a previous flight, the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot performed a forced landing in a field. The aircraft was not damaged in that incident. After purchasing fuel at the local airport and placing it in the aircraft, the pilot prepared for another departure.
Accident Sequence
The pilot attempted a takeoff on a road. During the takeoff roll, the left wing of the aircraft struck a sign. This caused the aircraft to veer to the left. Subsequently, the left wing struck a telephone pole, and the aircraft came to rest. A postcrash fire then consumed the aircraft.
Damage
The aircraft was destroyed by the postcrash fire.