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Airplane Descends into Trees During Turn After Takeoff in New Port Richey (N8096X)

New Port Richey, FL, US

On September 7, 1998, a Cessna 172B (registration N8096X) was involved in an aviation accident near New Port Richey, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilots disregard of the performance capabilities of the airplane, his failure to attain and maintain flying speed, and his exceeding of the airplane's maximum weight. 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

After takeoff from a private field in New Port Richey, Florida, the airplane made a left turn to enter the practice landing pattern and descended into trees. The pilot reported full fuel tanks. Police noted occupant weights and a 50-pound sand bag in the rear.

Accident Details

According to the pilot, the accident occurred after takeoff from a private field in New Port Richey, Florida. During a left turn to enter the practice landing pattern, the airplane descended into trees. The pilot reported that the aircraft's fuel tanks were filled to capacity just before the flight.

Occupant and Load Information

A police officer at the scene documented the weights of the occupants and cargo: the pilot weighed approximately 250 pounds, the right front seat passenger weighed about 300 pounds, and the rear seat passenger weighed about 200 pounds. Additionally, a 50-pound bag of sand was found in the rear of the baggage compartment.

Environmental Conditions

The temperature at the time of the accident was approximately 84 degrees Fahrenheit, with an altimeter setting of 29.94 inches of mercury. The wind was calm.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Sept 1998 Cessna 172B accident near New Port Richey, FL?

After takeoff from a private field in New Port Richey, Florida, the airplane made a left turn to enter the practice landing pattern and descended into trees. The pilot reported full fuel tanks. Police noted occupant weights and a 50-pound sand bag in the rear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Sept 1998 involved a Cessna 172B, registration N8096X, at New Port Richey, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilots disregard of the performance capabilities of the airplane, his failure to attain and maintain flying speed, and his exceeding of the airplane's maximum weight.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11000. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.