STINSON 108-2 near Winter Haven, FL — 2012-08-23

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, shortly after applying takeoff power, he allowed the tail of the airplane to lift off the ground "too early," and the airplane veered to the left into the grass. The airplane subsequently impacted the precision approach path indicator lights. The pilot flew the airplane around the airport traffic pattern and landed uneventfully. A postaccident examination revealed that the aft bulkhead was substantially damaged. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control on ground · Takeoff

Evidence available

• Photos
• 5 docket documents

Docket documents5

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• FAA Inspector's Notes on Damageother
• Winter Haven, Florida Weatherother
• Photo 1: Left Side of Airplane (Courtesy of the FAA)photos
• Photo 2: Structural Tubing Damage (Courtesy of the FAA)photos

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