Casualties unknown

Tailwheel Airplane Strikes Parked Vehicle and Trees After Aborted Takeoff (N3752F)

Fairbanks, AK, US

On August 27, 2002, a Cessna 172H (registration N3752F) was involved in an aviation accident near Fairbanks, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll, which resulted in the airplane exiting the runway and colliding with objects. 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 roll, a tailwheel-equipped airplane encountered a runway bump, became airborne prematurely, yawed left on descent, exited runway, and struck a parked vehicle and trees after the pilot aborted.

Accident Narrative

The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the takeoff roll, the aircraft encountered a bump in the runway. This caused the airplane to become airborne prematurely. As the airplane descended back toward the runway, it yawed to the left. Upon touchdown, the airplane went off the left side of the runway.

The pilot then pulled the power off in an attempt to abort the takeoff. However, the airplane subsequently struck a parked vehicle and trees. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or damage were provided.

Sequence of Events

The event began during the takeoff roll when the airplane hit a runway bump, leading to an unintended early lift-off. The airplane then began to descend and yaw left. After departing the left side of the runway, the pilot reduced power to abort. The airplane continued and collided with a parked vehicle and trees.

Contributing Factors

No specific contributing factors were identified in the report. The pilot's account describes the sequence but does not assign any causes beyond the initial bump.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Aug 2002 Cessna 172H accident near Fairbanks, AK?

During takeoff roll, a tailwheel-equipped airplane encountered a runway bump, became airborne prematurely, yawed left on descent, exited runway, and struck a parked vehicle and trees after the pilot aborted.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Aug 2002 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N3752F, at Fairbanks, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll, which resulted in the airplane exiting the runway and colliding with objects. Factors contributing to the accident were the rough and uneven runway, and the premature lift-off of the airplane.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020904X01526. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.