Aircraft strikes fence post during takeoff from grass runway

Casualties unknown • Lincoln, KS, US

A pilot experienced difficulty lifting off during a takeoff roll on a wet grass runway, resulting in the aircraft striking a stone fence post.

What happened

During the takeoff roll, the pilot of the aircraft realized that the plane might not achieve flight. In an attempt to lighten the weight, the pilot dumped the chemical load, which allowed the airplane to begin to liftoff.

As the aircraft departed the runway surface, the right main gear struck a stone fence post located at the end of the runway. Following the impact, the pilot reduced power and transitioned the aircraft into an adjacent pasture, where it touched down and skidded to a stop. The pilot was not injured.

The conditions on the grass runway were reported as soft and wet, with grass height measuring approximately 6 inches. At the time of the accident, there was light fog and high humidity. Weather observations from a station 29 nautical miles southeast of the site indicated winds of 200 degrees magnetic at 18 knots, a temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit, and a dew point of 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-05-16 Cessna A188B accident near Lincoln, KS?

A pilot experienced difficulty lifting off during a takeoff roll on a wet grass runway, resulting in the aircraft striking a stone fence post.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-05-16 involved a Cessna A188B, registration N9275R, at Lincoln, KS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

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.

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.

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