On September 8, 2004, a Cessna 402C (registration N5774C) was involved in an aviation accident near Charleston, WV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper decision to abort the takeoff with insufficient runway remaining. A factor was the wet runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a wet runway departure, the left nose cargo door opened at rotation. The pilot aborted the takeoff, but the aircraft overran the runway and struck an embankment.
Incident Overview
The aircraft was departing on a wet runway. About halfway down the runway, during the rotation phase, the left nose cargo door opened. In response, the pilot aborted the takeoff. The aircraft subsequently traveled off the end of the runway and struck an embankment.
Cargo Door Issue
A review of the airplane information manual indicated that an open cargo door would not strike the propeller or cause any unusual handling characteristics. The manual further stated that a takeoff with an open cargo door could be successfully completed.
Examination Findings
Examination of the aircraft did not reveal any pre-impact mechanical discrepancies. Additionally, the pilot did not report any such discrepancies.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 8 Sept 2004 Cessna 402C accident near Charleston, WV?
During a wet runway departure, the left nose cargo door opened at rotation. The pilot aborted the takeoff, but the aircraft overran the runway and struck an embankment.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Sept 2004 involved a Cessna 402C, registration N5774C, at Charleston, WV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's improper decision to abort the takeoff with insufficient runway remaining. A factor was the wet runway.
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