2004-10-27: Cessna 180 — Freedom, PA

Casualties unknown • Freedom, PA, US

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain obstacle clearance during the takeoff resulting in an in-flight collision with trees.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The local parachuting flight was to depart from the airport owned and maintained by the pilot. During the initial climb after takeoff from runway 09, the airplane drifted right and struck trees about 500 feet down the runway. The pilot stated that he did not see the trees before hitting them. A passenger stated that the pilot did not make any changes to the airplane's flight path prior to impact with the trees. The pilot and passenger both reported that the airplane's engine was operating normally.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-10-27 Cessna 180 accident near Freedom, PA?

The local parachuting flight was to depart from the airport owned and maintained by the pilot. During the initial climb after takeoff from runway 09, the airplane drifted right and struck trees about 500 feet down the runway. The pilot stated that he did not see the trees before hitting them. A passenger stated that…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-10-27 involved a Cessna 180, registration N2922C, at Freedom, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain obstacle clearance during the takeoff resulting in an in-flight collision with trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20041108X01781. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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