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NTSB investigation record

ERA26LA132

Completed

Cessna 172L· N7864G

Date
February 28, 2026
Location
Bennettsville, SC
Conditions
VMC
Record
Published June 17, 2026

Primary finding

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from trees on takeoff from a rural road.

Investigator assessment

Analysis narrative

The pilot was attempting to land on a private grass runway but due to sun glare, inadvertently landed in an adjacent field. The pilot then taxied to a nearby paved road and attempted to take off with the intent to land at the private grass runway. During the takeoff roll, the airplane collided with trees resulting in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

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