Cessna 172 M sustains heavy damage during aborted takeoff at Uetersen-Heist

Casualties unknown • Uetersen-Heist, DE

A flight for pleasure ended in a heavy impact after a Cessna 172 M experienced an abrupt loss of control during its second takeoff attempt.

What happened

On August 29, 2012, a Cessna F 172 M was attempting a sightseeing flight from the Uetersen-Heist airfield with the pilot and two passengers on board. The flight began with an initial takeoff attempt at 12:24, which was aborted near the halfway point of the grass runway. Following the aborted attempt, the aircraft taxied back to the holding point, where the engine remained off for approximately ten minutes.

A second takeoff attempt was initiated at 12:36. According to the airfield manager, the aircraft lifted off with an unusual, steep pitch. Shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of approximately ten meters, the aircraft struck the ground, resulting in heavy damage to the airframe. While the pilot and two passengers sustained only minor abrasions, the aircraft suffered significant structural failure.

The investigation

The BFU examined the aircraft and the flight conditions. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's weight and center of gravity were within permissible limits for the takeoff. The pilot reported that the aircraft had been trimmed for takeoff and had reached a speed of 65 knots. However, the pilot noted that at an estimated altitude of 8 to 10 meters, the aircraft experienced an abrupt leftward strike. Despite attempts to apply right rudder and pull back on the control stick, the aircraft failed to respond and pitched at a 45-degree angle toward the 8:00 position.

Physical inspection of the Cessna F 172 M revealed that the aircraft came to rest in a nose-up position. The propeller blades were broken near the hub, the nose gear and strut were bent backward, and the engine cowling was pushed inward. The fuselage was buckled behind the cabin, the wingtips were deformed upward, and the right door hinge was torn. No technical defects were found in the control units.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced an abrupt, uncommanded leftward movement during the initial climb phase.
  • The pilot's inputs, including right rudder and elevator, failed to correct the sudden pitch and yaw.
  • The aircraft's structural integrity was severely compromised upon impact, including damage to the propeller, landing gear, and fuselage.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced a sudden, uncommanded deviation to the left and a steep pitch during the climb phase, leading to a high-angle impact with the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2012-08-29 Reims Aviation Cessna F 172 M accident near Uetersen-Heist, DE?

A flight for pleasure ended in a heavy impact after a Cessna 172 M experienced an abrupt loss of control during its second takeoff attempt.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2012-08-29 involved a Reims Aviation Cessna F 172 M, at Uetersen-Heist, DE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced a sudden, uncommanded deviation to the left and a steep pitch during the climb phase, leading to a high-angle impact with the ground.

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