Primary finding
Probable cause
the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll by diverting his attention.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During the takeoff roll in the conventional gear airplane, the pilot diverted his attention to the airplane's floor and did not initially observe the airplane veering off the runway. The pilot reduced engine power and applied brakes. The airplane exited off the side of the runway, encountered soft terrain, and nosed over. He reported no mechanical problems.
Source record
Factual narrative
On October 31, 1995, about 0815 hours Pacific standard time, a Piper PA-22-135, N3562A, nosed over during takeoff from the University Airport, Davis, California. The personal flight was being initiated at the time of the accident. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was equipped with conventional landing gear and was substantially damaged. Neither the commercial pilot nor passenger was injured. The pilot reported that his attention was diverted during the takeoff roll on runway 16. He looked down at the floor and did not initially observe the airplane veering off course to the left. The pilot further reported that he reduced engine power and applied brakes. The airplane exited the runway, encountered soft terrain, and nosed over. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions with the aircraft. -