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Instructional Flight Veers Off Runway, Impacts Trees During Aborted Takeoff (N3573S)

Culver, IN, US

On April 13, 2001, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N3573S) was involved in an aviation accident near Culver, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the CFI delayed remedial action during the takeoff. Additional factors were the wrong runway was selected, the tailwind, and the trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

During an instructional flight, an airplane aborted takeoff on runway 16, settled back onto the runway, and veered off, impacting trees. The CFI applied maximum braking but could not stop before the excursion.

Event Details

During an instructional flight, the airplane initiated a takeoff on runway 16. After becoming airborne, the airplane climbed to an altitude of approximately 5 feet above the runway before settling back onto the runway surface. The certified flight instructor (CFI) assumed control of the airplane and applied maximum braking in an attempt to stop. However, the airplane did not stop and the CFI subsequently veered the airplane off the runway to avoid running off a steep slope and a swamp located beyond the departure end of the runway. The airplane then impacted trees.

Environmental Conditions

Winds reported at a weather station located 34 miles northeast of the airport were from 260 degrees at 7 knots.

Relevant Publications

Several Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) publications address the phenomenon of an airplane settling onto the runway after liftoff, discussing factors such as high rotational rates, rotation speed, ground effect, and downwind takeoffs.

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Apr 2001 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Culver, IN?

During an instructional flight, an airplane aborted takeoff on runway 16, settled back onto the runway, and veered off, impacting trees. The CFI applied maximum braking but could not stop before the excursion.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Apr 2001 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N3573S, at Culver, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the CFI delayed remedial action during the takeoff. Additional factors were the wrong runway was selected, the tailwind, and the trees.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010416X00761. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.