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Pilot Reports Runway Bumps Led to Veer-Off During Takeoff (N5180L)

Tangier Island, VA, US

On May 24, 2006, a Piper PA-28-280 (registration N5180L) was involved in an aviation accident near Tangier Island, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with a ditch. A factor was the rough runway condition. 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 on a 2,950-foot asphalt runway, a pilot reported the airplane veered left after hitting bumps, then struck a ditch.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during the takeoff roll on runway 02, the main landing gear encountered bumps on the runway surface. The runway was described as 2,950 feet long, 75 feet wide, and composed of asphalt. As the pilot rotated the airplane, the aircraft veered left.

Sequence of Events

The pilot attempted to correct the deviation, but the main landing gear subsequently traveled over another series of bumps. The airplane then veered further left, departed the left side of the runway, and struck a ditch.

Pilot Statement

The pilot provided the account, noting that the bumps on the runway contributed to the loss of directional control during the takeoff roll. No other details regarding the aircraft or circumstances were disclosed.

Runway excursion

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 May 2006 Piper PA-28-280 accident near Tangier Island, VA?

During takeoff on a 2,950-foot asphalt runway, a pilot reported the airplane veered left after hitting bumps, then struck a ditch.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 May 2006 involved a Piper PA-28-280, registration N5180L, at Tangier Island, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with a ditch. A factor was the rough runway condition.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060618X00763. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.