Casualties unknown

Takeoff Drift Leads to Runway Excursion and Inverted Resting Position (N5118Q)

Columbus, TX, US

On July 22, 2004, a Cessna T210L (registration N5118Q) operated by Troy A. Millican was involved in an aviation accident near Columbus, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll and abort the attempted takeoff. 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, an airplane drifted left of the runway centerline, and the pilot's corrective input did not prevent the drift from worsening. The aircraft exited the runway, struck a fence and ditch, and came to rest inverted. Examination found no anomalies in flight controls or brakes.

Accident Sequence

Approximately 1,000 feet down the runway during the takeoff roll, the airplane began to drift to the left of the runway centerline. The pilot responded by applying right rudder pedal in an attempt to correct the drift. Despite this input, the leftward drift continued and, according to the pilot, "appeared to worsen as aircraft progressed down the runway." The airplane subsequently exited the runway, struck a fence and a ditch, and then flipped over, coming to rest in an inverted position.

Pre-Takeoff and Examination

Prior to the takeoff, the taxi to the runway was uneventful, and an initial brake check performed by the pilot was normal. After the accident, an examination of the airplane's flight controls and brakes by an inspector revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

Pilot Experience

The pilot had accumulated a total of 4 hours of flight time in the accident airplane at the time of the event.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Jul 2004 Cessna T210L accident near Columbus, TX?

During takeoff, an airplane drifted left of the runway centerline, and the pilot's corrective input did not prevent the drift from worsening. The aircraft exited the runway, struck a fence and ditch, and came to rest inverted. Examination found no anomalies in flight controls or brakes.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Jul 2004 involved a Cessna T210L, registration N5118Q, operated by Troy A. Millican, at Columbus, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll and abort the attempted takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040723X01049. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.