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Casualties unknown

Takeoff Accident Involving Grass Runway, Flap Setting, and Forced Landing (N7132L)

Greene, RI, US

On May 23, 2004, a Grumman American AA-5 (registration N7132L) was involved in an aviation accident near Greene, RI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: High density altitude and short grass runway. 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 departure from a 1,600-foot grass runway with flaps set at 10 degrees, the pilot noted insufficient airspeed and runway length. The left wing contacted a tree top, leading to a forced landing in a corn field. The pilot cited high density altitude and short runway as causes.

Accident Overview

While departing from a 1,600-foot long grass runway, the pilot had set the flaps to 10 degrees. During the takeoff roll, the pilot realized that the airspeed was too slow to initiate a climb and that there was not enough remaining runway to abort the takeoff. As the airplane continued, the left wing came into contact with a tree top. The pilot subsequently performed a forced landing into an adjacent corn field.

Pilot's Comments

The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if the airplane had not been flown beyond its capabilities. The pilot identified the high density altitude and the short grass runway as the cause of the accident.

Checklist Deviation

According to the pilot, the "Before Take-Off" checklist required the flaps to be selected to the "UP" position (zero degrees) prior to takeoff. However, the flaps had been set to 10 degrees for the departure.

Probable cause

High density altitude and short grass runway

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 May 2004 Grumman American AA-5 accident near Greene, RI?

During departure from a 1,600-foot grass runway with flaps set at 10 degrees, the pilot noted insufficient airspeed and runway length. The left wing contacted a tree top, leading to a forced landing in a corn field. The pilot cited high density altitude and short runway as causes.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 May 2004 involved a Grumman American AA-5, registration N7132L, at Greene, RI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

High density altitude and short grass runway

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040617X00833. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.