Accident Overview
On March 21, 2026, at about 0905 eastern daylight time, a Cessna T206H (registration N2469H) was substantially damaged during a takeoff accident near Fort Myers, Florida. The pilot and four passengers sustained minor injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal operation.
Aircraft and Pilot Background
The pilot/owner reported purchasing the airplane new in November 2025. He returned the aircraft to the manufacturer’s factory for inspection and corrective actions on the standby battery system, air data/airspeed system, engine monitoring components, and one engine cylinder replacement due to low compression readings. After the work and test flights, the airplane was returned to service on March 11, 2026.
In the days preceding the accident, the pilot operated the airplane without incident, performing multiple takeoffs and landings from both paved and soft-field runways.
Accident Details
The accident takeoff was from runway 10 at Salty Approach Airport (FL90), a 1,800-foot-long, 100-foot-wide turf runway. The pilot employed a soft-field takeoff technique. He reported that the airplane remained on the runway longer than expected and did not achieve a normal liftoff profile within the anticipated distance. Forward visibility during the takeoff roll was limited, consistent with the soft-field attitude, and the pilot could not recall all instrument indications. As the airplane neared the end of the runway, the pilot attempted to lift off. The airplane became airborne, drifted laterally, and struck terrain and obstacles off the runway.
Witness Video and Damage
Review of a witness video revealed that for most of the takeoff roll, the airplane’s empennage dragged along the turf surface. The airplane appeared to become airborne, then veered right, exited the right side of the runway, and struck trees near the runway end. The aircraft came to rest upright and sustained substantial damage to both wings and the right horizontal stabilizer.