Casualties unknown

Pilot Lands Safely After Striking Bull During Takeoff (N2646R)

Young, AZ, US

On September 17, 2003, a Cessna 182K (registration N2646R) was involved in an aviation accident near Young, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure the runway was clear of obstacles prior to takeoff, which resulted in a collision with a bull. 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 2026-06-21Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a minor incident when his aircraft's right main landing gear struck a bull on the runway during takeoff. The flight continued to the destination without further issue.

What happened

The airplane was conducting a takeoff from an airstrip when it encountered an unexpected obstacle on the ground. As the aircraft climbed through an altitude of 6 feet above ground level (agl), a bull wandered onto the airstrip directly in the flight path.

The right main landing gear collided with the animal. Despite this impact, the pilot maintained control and continued the flight to the intended destination. The remainder of the journey proceeded without incident, and the airplane landed uneventfully.

After completing the landing, the pilot inspected the aircraft and noted that the right main gear box had been pulled loose due to the collision.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to ensure the runway was clear of obstacles prior to takeoff, which resulted in a collision with a bull.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Sept 2003 Cessna 182K accident near Young, AZ?

A pilot experienced a minor incident when his aircraft's right main landing gear struck a bull on the runway during takeoff. The flight continued to the destination without further issue.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Sept 2003 involved a Cessna 182K, registration N2646R, at Young, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to ensure the runway was clear of obstacles prior to takeoff, which resulted in a collision with a bull.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031010X01711. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.