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Airplane Veers Left During Takeoff, Departs Runway

Lancaster, PA, United States

On April 25, 2012, an EVEKTOR-AEROTECHNIK AS SPORTSTAR operated by SPORTSTAR 505EV LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Lancaster, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of directional control during the takeoff, and her delayed remedial action in aborting the takeoff after the loss of directional control. 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

During takeoff, the airplane veered left, departed the runway, bounced across grass and a taxiway, and came to rest 2,000 feet from the threshold. The nose landing gear collapsed and the firewall sustained substantial damage.

Accident Sequence

The pilot taxied the airplane onto the runway and applied full power to the engine for takeoff. Shortly after the application of power, the airplane veered to the left. The pilot attempted to apply right rudder to correct the deviation, but was unable to regain control before the airplane departed the runway surface.

After leaving the runway, the airplane crossed the grassy area adjacent to the runway and a taxiway, bouncing several times during this traverse. The pilot then cut off the engine. The airplane came to rest approximately 2,000 feet from the runway threshold.

Damage

During the accident sequence, the nose landing gear collapsed, and the firewall was substantially damaged.

Mechanical Examination

An examination of the airplane's rudder and nosewheel steering system revealed no evidence of any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures.

Contributing factors

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Apr 2012 EVEKTOR-AEROTECHNIK AS SPORTSTAR accident near Lancaster, PA?

During takeoff, the airplane veered left, departed the runway, bounced across grass and a taxiway, and came to rest 2,000 feet from the threshold. The nose landing gear collapsed and the firewall sustained substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 25 Apr 2012 EVEKTOR-AEROTECHNIK AS SPORTSTAR accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Apr 2012 involved an EVEKTOR-AEROTECHNIK AS SPORTSTAR, operated by SPORTSTAR 505EV LLC, at Lancaster, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's loss of directional control during the takeoff, and her delayed remedial action in aborting the takeoff after the loss of directional control.

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