Aircraft sustained substantial damage during takeoff roll at private airstrip

Casualties unknown • Sublette, KS, US

An aerial application aircraft struck a rut on a runway during takeoff, leading to a loss of control and subsequent impact with the ground.

What happened

During an aerial application flight, an aircraft was engaged in its takeoff roll at a private airstrip. As the aircraft approached rotation speed, it encountered a rut in the runway surface. This impact caused the aircraft to pull sharply to the left.

In an attempt to lift off, the pilot pulled back on the control stick. During this maneuver, the left boom of the aircraft made contact with wheat crops. This contact induced a rotation of one and a half turns counter-clockwise just above the wheat line. The aircraft then traveled approximately 400 feet through the air before impacting the ground, striking the tail section first.

The accident resulted in no injuries to the pilot, but the aircraft sustained substantial damage.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by pilot error, specifically the pilot's failure to properly inspect the runway conditions prior to takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-05-26 Cessna A188B accident near Sublette, KS?

An aerial application aircraft struck a rut on a runway during takeoff, leading to a loss of control and subsequent impact with the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-05-26 involved a Cessna A188B, registration N9076R, at Sublette, KS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by pilot error, specifically the pilot's failure to properly inspect the runway conditions prior to takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20966. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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