No fatalities

Pilot's Inadequate Rudder Input Leads to Runway Sign Collision

Denver, CO, United States

On March 18, 2020, a Cessna 172 S operated by C Flying K Aviation Llc was involved in an aviation accident near Denver, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate rudder input during takeoff after a touch and go landing. 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 a touch and go landing, a pilot retracted flaps and added power. The airplane veered left, the pilot applied right rudder but stated inadequate input. The airplane exited the runway and hit a sign, damaging the fuselage.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot, during the first touch and go landing of the day, the airplane landed on the runway with 30° of flaps. After touching down, the pilot prepared for takeoff by retracting the flaps and increasing engine power. Shortly after applying power, the airplane began to veer to the left. The pilot responded by retarding the throttle and applying right rudder.

Pilot Actions

The pilot reported that she "didn't supply adequate rudder" to counteract the leftward movement. As a result, the airplane departed the left side of the runway and collided with a runway sign. The impact caused substantial damage to the lower left fuselage longeron.

Aircraft Damage

The damage assessment noted that the lower left fuselage longeron sustained substantial damage. No other information regarding aircraft type, registration, or number of occupants was provided in the source.

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate rudder input during takeoff after a touch and go landing.

Contributing factors

PilotIncorrect use/operationDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedEffect on operation