Casualties unknown

Runway Excursion During Takeoff Leads to Nose-Over (N739RS)

Rutland, VT, US

On June 21, 2002, a Cessna 172N (registration N739RS) was involved in an aviation accident near Rutland, VT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain the centerline during the takeoff roll. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 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

A pilot reported losing directional control during takeoff, veering off the runway, and nosing over after a correction. No mechanical anomalies were found.

Accident Overview

During the takeoff roll, the pilot failed to maintain the centerline of the runway. Approximately 300 feet down the runway, the airplane veered off the left side. The pilot then corrected to the right, causing the right wing to rise and the airplane to nose over to the left.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no mechanical anomalies with the airplane. The loss of directional control was attributed to his own error in maintaining the centerline.

Inspection Findings

A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the airplane following the accident. The inspection revealed that flight control continuity was present from the flight controls to the cockpit. Additionally, no mechanical anomalies were found in the brake system.

Conclusion

The event was characterized by a loss of directional control during the takeoff roll, resulting in a runway excursion and subsequent nose-over. The pilot's failure to maintain the centerline was the primary factor reported.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain the centerline during the takeoff roll.

All Cessna 172 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Jun 2002 Cessna 172N accident near Rutland, VT?

A pilot reported losing directional control during takeoff, veering off the runway, and nosing over after a correction. No mechanical anomalies were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Jun 2002 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N739RS, at Rutland, VT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain the centerline during the takeoff roll.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020708X01064. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.