Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with terrain.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported that he added power for takeoff and the airplane started to veer to the left. He stated that he attempted to correct with right rudder and brake, but the airplane departed the paved portion of the runway and the left wing impacted corn rows parallel to the runway. After impacting the corn rows, the pilot reported that the airplane spun around 180 degrees and came to rest in a drainage ditch. The right wing and fuselage sustained substantial damage.

The pilot stated there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

cause Pilot
cause Directional control — Not attained/maintained

Conditions

Weather: VMC, wind 220/06kt, vis 10sm

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18 Jul 2015: CESSNA R172K K — TIM WHITFIELD AVIATION INC