Casualties unknown

Runway Excursion During Takeoff Roll (N78053)

Grass Valley, CA, US

On September 15, 2000, a Globe GC-1B (registration N78053) was involved in an aviation accident near Grass Valley, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff roll. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff roll, the airplane veered left despite right rudder application, exited the runway, and the landing gear collapsed. Wind was light and variable.

Accident Sequence

The pilot applied full power, and the airplane began to accelerate along the runway centerline. Shortly after passing the painted runway numbers, the tail started to rise, and the aircraft began to turn to the left. In response, the pilot applied right rudder to correct the left turn. However, the rudder appeared to have almost no effect on the direction of travel. The airplane subsequently departed the left side of the runway.

Landing Gear Collapse

After exiting the paved surface, the landing gear collapsed, and the airplane came to rest in the area between the runway and the adjacent taxiway.

Wind Conditions

At the time of the incident, the wind was reported as light and variable.

Investigation Notes

No other factors or circumstances were detailed in the initial report. The specific make, model, or registration of the aircraft involved were not provided. No information regarding occupants, injuries, or damage extent was available.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Sept 2000 Globe GC-1B accident near Grass Valley, CA?

During takeoff roll, the airplane veered left despite right rudder application, exited the runway, and the landing gear collapsed. Wind was light and variable.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Sept 2000 involved a Globe GC-1B, registration N78053, at Grass Valley, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff roll.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22013. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.