Aircraft collision with embankment following takeoff on grass strip

Casualties unknown • Minidoka, ID, US

A pilot was unable to sustain flight after a long takeoff roll on a grass runway, resulting in an aircraft collision with an embankment.

What happened

During the takeoff roll on a 2,200-foot grass strip, the pilot noted that while the engine sounded smooth, it was not as loud as normal. Although the tail lifted from the runway surface at the expected point, the aircraft failed to reach sufficient speed by the normal liftoff point.

The pilot reported that after utilizing the entire length of the runway, the Cessna (type not specified in source) was able to lift off. However, the pilot could not sustain flight, and the aircraft subsequently collided with a 4-foot bank located at the departure end of the runway. The aircraft came to rest approximately 100 yards beyond the end of the strip. There were no reported injuries or fatalities in this incident.

Findings

The investigation focused on the pilot's observation regarding the engine noise levels and the inability to achieve standard liftoff speeds despite using the full available runway length.

Probable cause

The aircraft was unable to maintain flight after an extended takeoff roll, leading to a collision with an embankment at the end of the grass runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2006-05-03 Cessna A188B accident near Minidoka, ID?

A pilot was unable to sustain flight after a long takeoff roll on a grass runway, resulting in an aircraft collision with an embankment.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2006-05-03 involved a Cessna A188B, registration N8959G, at Minidoka, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was unable to maintain flight after an extended takeoff roll, leading to a collision with an embankment at the end of the grass runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060525X00634. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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