Aircraft runway excursion due to loss of directional control

Casualties unknown • Farmingdale, NJ, US

A pilot experienced a loss of directional control during the takeoff roll, resulting in the aircraft wing contacting the ground.

What happened

During the takeoff roll, the aircraft accelerated with the engine at full throttle. Before reaching rotation speed, the airplane began to drift to the right. During this maneuver, the right tire rolled off the runway while the left tire became airborne. As the right tire subsequently lifted off the ground, the aircraft entered an immediate right turn. The bank angle increased steadily until the right wing made contact with the ground.

At the time of the accident, winds were recorded at 7 knots. The pilot had accumulated approximately 62 hours of flight time in this specific aircraft make and model over the preceding two months.

The investigation

The investigation examined both the airframe and the engine. No preimpact failures or malfunctions were identified in either the airframe or the engine components.

Probable cause

The aircraft drifted right during the takeoff roll, leading to a runway excursion when the right wing contacted the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-07-01 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Farmingdale, NJ?

A pilot experienced a loss of directional control during the takeoff roll, resulting in the aircraft wing contacting the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-07-01 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N2414P, at Farmingdale, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft drifted right during the takeoff roll, leading to a runway excursion when the right wing contacted the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020712X01101. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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