On August 24, 1999, an Embraer ERJ-135 (registration PTZJA) was involved in an aviation accident near Moses Lake, WA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Minimum aircraft control exceeded during takeoff test flight, which resulted in dragging a wing on the runway surface. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a minimum unstick speed determination test flight, an aircraft lifted off to about five feet, then rolled left, causing the left wingtip and outboard aileron to contact the runway and sustain minor damage. The pilot continued the takeoff and returned for landing without further incident.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported an incident during a minimum unstick speed determination test flight. According to the report, the aircraft lifted off the runway to an altitude of approximately five feet. Just before achieving aileron effectiveness, the aircraft experienced an uncommanded roll to the left.
Damage
The left wing dropped and made contact with the runway surface. This contact resulted in minor damage to the wingtip and the outboard trailing edge of the aileron. No further damage was reported.
Flight Summary
Following the wing contact, the pilot continued the takeoff and subsequently returned to the airport for landing. The remainder of the flight was completed without further incident.
What happened in the 24 Aug 1999 Embraer ERJ-135 accident near Moses Lake, WA?
During a minimum unstick speed determination test flight, an aircraft lifted off to about five feet, then rolled left, causing the left wingtip and outboard aileron to contact the runway and sustain minor damage. The pilot continued the takeoff and returned for landing without further incident.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 Aug 1999 Embraer ERJ-135 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Aug 1999 involved an Embraer ERJ-135, registration PTZJA, at Moses Lake, WA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Minimum aircraft control exceeded during takeoff test flight, which resulted in dragging a wing on the runway surface.
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