Runway excursion involving student pilot during takeoff

Casualties unknown • Jacksonville, FL, US

A student pilot lost directional control of a tailwheel aircraft during takeoff, resulting in a runway excursion and substantial damage to the aircraft.

What happened

During a flight involving a student pilot and a flight instructor, the aircraft was performing a touch-and-go landing sequence. The initial landing was reported as uneventful. However, during the subsequent takeoff, the aircraft began to weather vane.

In an attempt to maintain control, the pilot retarded the throttle to idle and applied left rudder input. Despite these efforts, the aircraft veered off the runway and struck a runway light. The momentum caused the plane to swing in a 180-degree arc, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.

Findings

The occupants reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions of any aircraft systems prior to the accident. The flight instructor also attempted rudder control input during the excursion but was unable to maintain directional control as the aircraft moved toward the right edge of the runway.

Probable cause

The pilot was unable to maintain directional control during takeoff, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway and strike a light pole.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-07-01 Piper PA-22-20 accident near Jacksonville, FL?

A student pilot lost directional control of a tailwheel aircraft during takeoff, resulting in a runway excursion and substantial damage to the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-07-01 involved a Piper PA-22-20, registration N1693A, at Jacksonville, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot was unable to maintain directional control during takeoff, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway and strike a light pole.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020709X01069. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…