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Aircraft Veers Left on Takeoff from Wet Grass Runway, Strikes Fence and Dirt Mound (N97168)

White Post, VA, US

On April 26, 2001, a Stinson 108 (registration N97168) was involved in an aviation accident near White Post, VA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to remove frost from the airplane prior to departure. A factor in the accident was the tall wet grass. 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 on a 2000-foot wet grass runway, an airplane veered left, crossed a barbed wire fence, hit a dirt mound, and came to rest nosedown. The pilot reported frost on the aircraft and did not de-ice due to haste.

Accident Details

During the take-off roll on a 2,000-foot long wet grass runway, the airplane veered to the left. It subsequently went through a barbed wire fence, struck a dirt mound, and came to rest 150 feet beyond the mound on its nose. The pilot reported that a light frost covered the airplane prior to departure. He stated that he did not de-ice the airplane because he was in a hurry.

Pilot Statements

The pilot reported to an FAA inspector that the accident was "his fault and he knew better." He also stated that there were no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane. Additionally, the pilot indicated that the accident could have been prevented if he had "de-iced the aircraft thoroughly." The grass on the runway was estimated to be about 9 inches long.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Apr 2001 Stinson 108 accident near White Post, VA?

During takeoff on a 2000-foot wet grass runway, an airplane veered left, crossed a barbed wire fence, hit a dirt mound, and came to rest nosedown. The pilot reported frost on the aircraft and did not de-ice due to haste.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Apr 2001 Stinson 108 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Apr 2001 involved a Stinson 108, registration N97168, at White Post, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to remove frost from the airplane prior to departure. A factor in the accident was the tall wet grass.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010507X00888. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.