Aircraft nosed over after departing runway during takeoff

Casualties unknown • Minden, NV, US

An aircraft veered off the runway during takeoff, resulting in a nose-over accident after encountering sagebrush.

What happened

Following a landing, the aircraft was taxied back to prepare for departure. During the initial application of power, the airplane experienced a left yaw, which the pilot corrected using right rudder.

The takeoff sequence initially proceeded normally; however, while the aircraft was approximately 2 to 3 feet in the air, the tail suddenly veered to the left and then to the right. The pilot believed the aircraft had encountered a gust of wind or a dust devil. At this stage of the flight, the airplane's heading was roughly 50 to 70 degrees offset from the runway heading.

Deciding it was not prudent to attempt to realign with the runway, the pilot continued straight ahead. Approximately 50 feet beyond the edge of the runway, the wheels and propeller made contact with sagebrush that stood between 2 and 5 feet in height. The aircraft subsequently descended into the ground and nosed over onto its back.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-07-08 Stinson 108-2 accident near Minden, NV?

An aircraft veered off the runway during takeoff, resulting in a nose-over accident after encountering sagebrush.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-07-08 involved a Stinson 108-2, registration N264C, operated by William E. Yoder, at Minden, NV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

failure of the pilot to compensate for a sudden wind shift resulting in a loss of directional control and collision with high vegetation.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21501. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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