On March 26, 2000, a Cessna 172 (registration N7879T) was involved in an aviation accident near Sissonville, WV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain runway alignment during takeoff. A factor in the accident was wind gusts. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot experienced a left drift during takeoff from a dirt strip after encountering a gust of wind. The aircraft struck trees and came to rest 80 feet left of the runway.
Accident Details
The pilot was conducting a takeoff from a 1,100-foot dirt strip for closed traffic. Shortly after becoming airborne, the airplane encountered a gust of wind. The pilot applied full aileron and rudder inputs but was unable to arrest a drift to the left. The airplane subsequently struck trees and slid down a bank, coming to rest approximately 80 feet from the left edge of the runway.
Findings
The pilot reported no flight control or engine malfunctions. Weather conditions at the time of the takeoff were clear with occasional gusts of wind. Post-accident examination revealed that the fuel selector was in the on position, fuel was present, and flight control continuity was verified.
What happened in the 26 Mar 2000 Cessna 172 accident near Sissonville, WV?
A pilot experienced a left drift during takeoff from a dirt strip after encountering a gust of wind. The aircraft struck trees and came to rest 80 feet left of the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Mar 2000 involved a Cessna 172, registration N7879T, at Sissonville, WV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain runway alignment during takeoff. A factor in the accident was wind gusts.
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