Casualties unknown

Student Pilot's Soft Field Takeoff Results in Cross-Controlled Roll and Substantial Damage (N48017)

Concord, NH, US

On July 3, 2005, a Cessna 152 (registration N48017) operated by Emerson Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Concord, NH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's failure to maintain airspeed, and the flight instructor's inadequate remedial action, which resulted in an inadvertant stall and uncontrolled descent into terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a soft field takeoff demonstration on an instructional flight, a student pilot's correction for a left drift led to a cross-controlled condition. As the nose rose to 10 degrees, the airplane rolled right, contacted the ground, and was substantially damaged. No mechanical deficiencies were found.

Accident Overview

According to the accident investigation report, a student pilot was conducting a demonstration of a soft field takeoff during an instructional flight. During the takeoff roll, the airplane began to drift to the left. The student pilot attempted to correct the drift; however, the airplane became airborne while the controls were in a cross-controlled configuration. A cross-controlled condition occurs when aileron and rudder are applied in opposite directions, often resulting in uncoordinated flight.

Sequence of Events

Once airborne, the airplane's nose continued to rise. When the angle of attack reached approximately 10 degrees nose up, the airplane rolled abruptly to the right. The roll continued until the airplane made contact with the ground. The impact caused substantial damage to the airplane.

Examination and Findings

Following the accident, an examination of the airplane was conducted. The inspection revealed no mechanical deficiencies or malfunctions. The airplane's systems, including flight controls, were found to be operational and without any pre-existing faults.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Jul 2005 Cessna 152 accident near Concord, NH?

During a soft field takeoff demonstration on an instructional flight, a student pilot's correction for a left drift led to a cross-controlled condition. As the nose rose to 10 degrees, the airplane rolled right, contacted the ground, and was substantially damaged. No mechanical deficiencies were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Jul 2005 involved a Cessna 152, registration N48017, operated by Emerson Aviation, at Concord, NH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's failure to maintain airspeed, and the flight instructor's inadequate remedial action, which resulted in an inadvertant stall and uncontrolled descent into terrain.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050719X01058. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.