No fatalities

Pilot Unfamiliar with Runway Length Leads to Takeoff Accident

Jamestown, PA, United States

On May 13, 2008, a Cessna 172A operated by David W. Richerson was involved in an aviation accident near Jamestown, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control after takeoff resulting in contact with the ground. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's inadequate preflight planning resulting in a takeoff from a short, wet, soft, runway. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempted takeoff from a short, wet, soft runway without prior survey, lost directional control due to strong P-factor, and the aircraft contacted the ground.

Incident Overview

A pilot conducted a takeoff from a short, wet, soft runway. According to the pilot's statement, he was not aware of the runway's length and did not walk or survey the runway prior to the takeoff. He employed a combination of short-field and soft-field takeoff procedures.

Loss of Control

After becoming airborne, the pilot reported that the "P" factor, or left turning tendency, seemed "unusually strong." In an attempt to maintain directional control, he applied right aileron and rudder. Subsequently, the right wing contacted the ground, followed by the nose and then the left wing.

Aircraft Condition

The pilot stated that there was no preimpact failure or malfunction with the airplane or its systems.

Contributing factors

Causes

Pilot

Other contributing factors

Awareness of condition

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 May 2008 Cessna 172A accident near Jamestown, PA?

A pilot attempted takeoff from a short, wet, soft runway without prior survey, lost directional control due to strong P-factor, and the aircraft contacted the ground.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 May 2008 Cessna 172A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 May 2008 involved a Cessna 172A, operated by David W. Richerson, at Jamestown, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain control after takeoff resulting in contact with the ground. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's inadequate preflight planning resulting in a takeoff from a short, wet, soft, runway.