Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Loses Control During Takeoff, Strikes Trees (N758XB)

Burnham, PA, US

On April 27, 2003, a Cessna 172K (registration N758XB) was involved in an aviation accident near Burnham, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll. 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

A student pilot lost directional control during takeoff, causing the airplane to yaw left, depart the runway, and strike several trees before stopping.

Incident Overview

A student pilot conducted a preflight inspection of the airplane, boarded, and started the engine. After completing the engine runup checks, the pilot taxied onto the runway and initiated the takeoff roll. As full power was applied, the airplane yawed left, departed the left side of the runway, and struck several trees before coming to a stop.

Pilot Account

The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or anomalies with the airplane. When asked about the event, the pilot stated that he simply "lost control."

Conditions and Sequence

The takeoff began normally with the pilot applying full power. Shortly thereafter, the airplane unexpectedly veered left. The departure from the runway surface and subsequent collision with trees resulted in damage to the airplane. The event concluded with the airplane coming to a stop after striking the trees.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Apr 2003 Cessna 172K accident near Burnham, PA?

A student pilot lost directional control during takeoff, causing the airplane to yaw left, depart the runway, and strike several trees before stopping.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Apr 2003 involved a Cessna 172K, registration N758XB, at Burnham, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

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

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030505X00620. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.