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Tailwheel Airplane Swerves During Takeoff, Strikes Bush and Tree (N985BC)

Garrettsville, OH, US

On September 26, 2006, a Boeing A75N1 (registration N985BC) was involved in an aviation accident near Garrettsville, OH. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll. The bush and tree were factors to the accident. 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 from a private grass airstrip, a tailwheel airplane deviated left for unknown reasons, striking a bush and then a tree. Rudder inputs were unable to correct the swerve. Examination found no pre-impact anomalies.

Accident Details

The accident occurred during the initial takeoff roll of a tailwheel airplane operating from a private grass airstrip. As the airplane began its takeoff, it swerved to the left, impacting a bush and subsequently a tree before coming to rest.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that during the takeoff roll, the airplane "deviated to the left for unknown reasons." He reported that "rudder inputs were unable to bring the aircraft back onto the grass runway before the left wingtip clipped a bush." The airplane then "continued further left, and the left wings struck a tree." At the time of the accident, winds were reported to be calm.

Examination

A post-accident examination of the tailwheel assembly, brake system, and flight controls revealed no pre-impact anomalies.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Sept 2006 Boeing A75N1 accident near Garrettsville, OH?

During takeoff from a private grass airstrip, a tailwheel airplane deviated left for unknown reasons, striking a bush and then a tree. Rudder inputs were unable to correct the swerve. Examination found no pre-impact anomalies.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Sept 2006 Boeing A75N1 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Sept 2006 involved a Boeing A75N1, registration N985BC, at Garrettsville, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll. The bush and tree were factors to the accident.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20061020X01545. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.