On May 3, 2011, a CESSNA A185F operated by PLUMBO VICTOR GASTON was involved in an aviation accident near Ocean City, NJ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's premature lifting of the tail wheel during takeoff roll, leading to a loss of directional control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff, the pilot prematurely lifted the tail wheel, causing a loss of directional control. The airplane veered left, exited the runway, struck a light, and sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.
Accident Details
A pilot reported losing directional control during a takeoff attempt on runway 24. After approximately 200 feet of the takeoff roll, the pilot lifted the tail wheel prematurely. This action caused the airplane to veer to the left, exit the runway, and strike a runway light. The impact separated the right main landing gear from the airplane, and the right wing collided with the ground.
Damage Assessment
The accident sequence resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage. The right main landing gear was completely detached from the aircraft. No other damage details were provided.
Weather Conditions
The nearest airport's weather observation system recorded wind from 170 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 17 knots at the time of the accident.
Probable cause
The pilot's premature lifting of the tail wheel during takeoff roll, leading to a loss of directional control.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 May 2011 CESSNA A185F accident near Ocean City, NJ?
During takeoff, the pilot prematurely lifted the tail wheel, causing a loss of directional control. The airplane veered left, exited the runway, struck a light, and sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.
Were there any fatalities in the 3 May 2011 CESSNA A185F accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 May 2011 involved a CESSNA A185F, operated by PLUMBO VICTOR GASTON, at Ocean City, NJ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's premature lifting of the tail wheel during takeoff roll, leading to a loss of directional control.