Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 140 near New Smyrna Beach, FL — 2020-09-26

Final reportERA20LA334
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Date
2020-09-26
Location
New Smyrna Beach, FL, USA
Airport
X50
Aircraft
CESSNA 140
Registration
N89476
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s decision to depart from a non-suitable surface, which resulted in a loss of directional control during takeoff roll.

NTSB narrative

During the takeoff roll from a grass area adjacent the paved runway surface, the airplane’s left main landing gear wheel struck a “muddy pothole.” The airplane’s nose then veered down and to the left and the pilot lost directional control of the airplane. The airplane subsequently struck a fence, and the right wing impacted a tree substantially damaging it. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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