What happened
On March 21, 2026, at approximately 0905 EDT, a Cessna T206H, registration N2469H, was involved in an accident during a takeoff from Salty Approach Airport (FL90) near Fort Myers, Florida. The flight was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal use.
The pilot was attempting a soft-field takeoff on runway 10, which is a turf runway measuring 1,800 feet in length and 100 feet in width. According to the pilot, the aircraft remained on the runway longer than anticipated and failed to achieve a normal liftoff profile within the expected distance. During the takeoff roll, forward visibility was limited due to the soft-field takeoff attitude, and the pilot did not recall all instrument indications during the maneuver.
As the aircraft approached the end of the runway, the pilot attempted to lift off. The airplane became airborne but drifted laterally, striking terrain and obstacles outside the runway environment. Witness video indicated that the aircraft's empennage dragged along the turf for much of the takeoff roll. The aircraft then veered to the right, exited the runway, and struck trees. The accident resulted in 5 minor injuries and 0 fatalities. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to both wings and the right horizontal stabilizer.
Aircraft history
The pilot/owner had purchased the aircraft new in November 2025. Prior to the accident, the aircraft had been returned to the manufacturer for inspections and repairs involving the standby battery system, air data/airspeed system, and engine monitoring components. Additionally, one engine cylinder was replaced due to low compression. Following these repairs and successful test flights, the aircraft had been returned to service on March 11, 2026.