On 28 Nov 2018, a Cessna 172 P was involved in an aviation accident near St. Petersburg, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to remove the gust lock before flight, which resulted in the airplane’s inability to rotate and a subsequent runway overrun. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to follow the preflight checklist. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot rushed preflight, did not use checklist, attempted takeoff with control lock engaged. The airplane overran the runway, struck water, inverted, and sank, sustaining substantial damage.
Accident Narrative
The pilot conducted a takeoff with the airplane at near maximum gross weight. He reported being rushed before the flight and not following the preflight checklist. During the takeoff roll, he observed that acceleration was slower than expected, but the airspeed was sufficient for rotation. When he applied elevator back pressure to rotate, he immediately realized that the control lock was still in place on the yoke. He attempted to remove the lock but was unsuccessful. The pilot stated that he does not recall aborting the takeoff or reducing power. The airplane overran the runway end, impacted water, and came to rest inverted before sinking.
Damage
The accident caused substantial damage to the fuselage and empennage of the airplane.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Unintentional use/operationPilotAttain/maintain not possible