Casualties unknown

Aircraft Collides with Sagebrush After Takeoff Attempt with Flaps Retracted (N7494Q)

Stanley, ID, US

On August 7, 1998, a Cessna U206F (registration N7494Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Stanley, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot-in-command's not lowering flaps prior to takeoff and overload of the nose landing gear. Contributing factors were high density altitude conditions and high brush. 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 pilot attempted takeoff with flaps retracted, believing they were extended. The aircraft failed to become fully airborne, crossed a fence, and collided with sagebrush, collapsing the nose gear. Post-crash examination confirmed flaps were up.

Accident Summary

The pilot-in-command reported that during the takeoff roll, they believed the flaps were extended but later realized they had not been set. The aircraft did not achieve full flight, passed through a perimeter fence, and subsequently struck sagebrush. The impact caused the nose landing gear to collapse.

Aircraft Examination

A post-crash examination of the aircraft revealed that the flaps were in the retracted position, confirming the pilot's account.

Environmental Conditions

The accident occurred at a turf airstrip measuring 4,300 feet in length. The density altitude at the time was calculated to be 7,325 feet.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Aug 1998 Cessna U206F accident near Stanley, ID?

A pilot attempted takeoff with flaps retracted, believing they were extended. The aircraft failed to become fully airborne, crossed a fence, and collided with sagebrush, collapsing the nose gear. Post-crash examination confirmed flaps were up.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Aug 1998 involved a Cessna U206F, registration N7494Q, at Stanley, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot-in-command's not lowering flaps prior to takeoff and overload of the nose landing gear. Contributing factors were high density altitude conditions and high brush.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10955. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.