Aircraft Capsized During Takeoff from Grass Strip

Casualties unknown • Aurora, OR, US

A private pilot and flight instructor were involved in an aircraft accident when their plane veered off a narrow turf runway and flipped upside down during takeoff.

What happened

Two pilots were attempting to depart to the north from a narrow, grass strip runway. The aircraft was operating under a ferry permit because it was currently out of its annual inspection. After performing a U-turn at the end of the runway to begin the takeoff roll, the pilot applied power.

The runway, which was approximately 30 feet wide, was in poor condition with several potholes. As the aircraft accelerated, the plane began bouncing due to the uneven surface and drifted toward the right edge of the strip. During the takeoff roll, the right wingtip struck tall bushes located at the edge of the runway. This contact made it difficult for the crew to maintain directional control. Subsequently, the right landing gear entered a ditch that had been obscured by brush, causing the aircraft to flip upside down.

Both the pilot in the left seat and the flight instructor in the right seat reported that they were close to the edge of the runway at the time of the incident. Following the accident, it was noted that both occupants believed the other pilot was in control of the aircraft.

Probable cause

The aircraft veered off the narrow, uneven grass runway after the wingtip struck vegetation and the landing gear entered a hidden ditch.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-07-07 Piper PA-22 accident near Aurora, OR?

A private pilot and flight instructor were involved in an aircraft accident when their plane veered off a narrow turf runway and flipped upside down during takeoff.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-07-07 involved a Piper PA-22, registration N2646A, operated by Webb, Carey, I., at Aurora, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft veered off the narrow, uneven grass runway after the wingtip struck vegetation and the landing gear entered a hidden ditch.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10708. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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