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NTSB Report

May 31, 2015 · Cessna T188C · N9987J

Ismay, MT

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 31, 2015
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Ismay, MT
Aircraft
Cessna T188C (1982)
Tail Number
N9987J
Operator
Monte Reder
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
WPR15CA173

The pilot reported that he had successfully flown five aerial application flights prior to the accident flight with loads that were only half of capacity. This make/model airplane was new to the pilot, but he felt comfortable with the airplane having accumulated about 15 hours at the time of the accident. During the takeoff roll, the airplane hit a bump about halfway down the runway, and started to porpoise. The pilot stated that he started losing directional control, and applied the brakes. After regaining control, the airplane was not aligned with the runway; however, he continued the takeoff, thinking that the airplane was going to fly. The airplane subsequently departed the runway surface, collided with a three-strand wire fence, and bounced across a dike. The collision with the fence damaged the landing gear, and the airplane skidded to a stop. Both wings, both main landing gear, and the engine mount sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's incorrect action to continue the takeoff when he failed to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.

Full Narrative

The pilot reported that he had successfully flown five aerial application flights prior to the accident flight with loads that were only half of capacity. This make/model airplane was new to the pilot, but he felt comfortable with the airplane having accumulated about 15 hours at the time of the accident. During the takeoff roll, the airplane hit a bump about halfway down the runway, and started to porpoise. The pilot stated that he started losing directional control, and applied the brakes. After regaining control, the airplane was not aligned with the runway; however, he continued the takeoff, thinking that the airplane was going to fly. The airplane subsequently departed the runway surface, collided with a three-strand wire fence, and bounced across a dike. The collision with the fence damaged the landing gear, and the airplane skidded to a stop. Both wings, both main landing gear, and the engine mount sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time13:30 MDT
Nearest AirportBaldwin Ranch Strip (0nm)
Flight Plan FiledIFR
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftCessna T188C
Tail NumberN9987J
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorMonte Reder
Operating RulePart 137
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsContinental Motors Inc · TSIO-520 · Reciprocating · 310
Seats1

People & Injuries

Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 59 · Second Class · None

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind330° @ 26 kt, gusting 32 kt
Visibility5 sm
CeilingOvercast 1000 ft
Temperature / Dew Point43 C / 37 C
Altimeter30.00 inHg
Observation Time19:34
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data