On October 25, 2002, a Cessna 172N (registration N267EP) was involved in an aviation accident near Sebring, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's premature rotation and failure to maintain airspeed during the takeoff, which resulted in an inadvertent stall, an uncontrolled descent, and an impact with the ground. 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.
During takeoff on runway 36, the airplane yawed left and experienced a premature nose-high rotation, climbing to about 50-60 feet before the nose abruptly fell and the aircraft turned left, impacting the ground in a cartwheel motion.
Accident Sequence
Witnesses reported that during the takeoff roll on runway 36, the airplane yawed to the left. They observed what appeared to be a premature, nose-high rotation. The nose rose high into the air, and the airplane climbed to approximately 50 to 60 feet. At that point, the nose of the airplane abruptly fell, while the aircraft simultaneously turned to the left. The initial impact with the ground involved the left wing, followed by the propeller and nose, and then the right wing in a cartwheel-like motion. After coming to rest, the airplane was positioned with its tail up, resting on its main wheels and facing south.
Post-Crash Examination
An FAA inspector who examined the accident site noted that the elevator trim was set to a nose-down position, and the flaps were extended approximately 10 degrees. The inspector reported no other anomalies with the accident airplane.
What happened in the 25 Oct 2002 Cessna 172N accident near Sebring, FL?
During takeoff on runway 36, the airplane yawed left and experienced a premature nose-high rotation, climbing to about 50-60 feet before the nose abruptly fell and the aircraft turned left, impacting the ground in a cartwheel motion.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 Oct 2002 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N267EP, at Sebring, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The student pilot's premature rotation and failure to maintain airspeed during the takeoff, which resulted in an inadvertent stall, an uncontrolled descent, and an impact with the ground.
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