Aircraft Excursion During Takeoff Attempt from Runway 29

Casualties unknown • Bethel, AK, US

A commercial pilot aborted a takeoff on a gravel runway after the aircraft veered left, resulting in the plane running off the runway and striking a fence.

What happened

A certificated commercial pilot was attempting to depart from intersection Echo on runway 29. The pilot noted that the gravel runway surface had a light accumulation of heavy, wet snow and slush. At the time of the departure roll, the pilot estimated there were approximately 1,500 feet of runway remaining from the intersection.

During the takeoff roll, the aircraft veered to the left. The pilot applied full right rudder in an attempt to correct the directional deviation but was unsuccessful. Consequently, the pilot closed the throttle, aborted the takeoff, and applied maximum braking. The aircraft subsequently ran off the end of the runway, descended down an embankment, and struck a chain link fence. The accident resulted in substantial damage to both wings.

Data from airport personnel indicated that when departing runway 29 from intersection Echo, the published usable runway remaining is 1,350 feet, while the full-length usable portion of runway 29 is 1,850 feet. At the time of the accident, winds were reported at 093 degrees magnetic at 9 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-11-03 Cessna 207A accident near Bethel, AK?

A commercial pilot aborted a takeoff on a gravel runway after the aircraft veered left, resulting in the plane running off the runway and striking a fence.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-11-03 involved a Cessna 207A, registration N7336U, operated by Yute Air Alaska, at Bethel, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to use all available runway. Factors associated with the accident were the pilot's inadequate preflight planning/preparation, a short runway, a tailwind, and a slush-covered runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001226X45474. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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