Casualties unknown

Airplane Strikes Fence Post During Takeoff from Soft Grass Runway (N9275R)

Lincoln, KS, US

On May 16, 1999, a Cessna A188B (registration N9275R) was involved in an aviation accident near Lincoln, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the altitude/clearance not obtained by the pilot and the unsuitable takeoff area selected by the pilot. Factors to the accident were the high, soft, and wet grass runway. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from a soft, wet grass runway, the pilot dumped the chemical load after sensing the airplane might not fly, then struck a stone fence post with the right main gear before landing in a pasture.

Accident Overview

During the takeoff roll, the pilot realized the airplane might not fly and subsequently dumped the chemical load. As the airplane began to lift off, it struck a stone fence post at the end of the runway with the right main gear. The pilot then reduced power, touched down in a pasture, and skidded to a stop.

Runway and Weather Conditions

The pilot described the grass runway as soft and wet, with grass approximately 6 inches tall. Weather conditions included high humidity and light fog at the time of the accident. A weather observation station located 29 nautical miles southeast reported winds from 200 degrees magnetic at 18 knots, temperature 79°F, and dew point 68°F.

Pilot Report

In a written report to the NTSB, the pilot indicated there were no preimpact mechanical problems with the airplane.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18722. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.