Primary finding
Probable cause
failure of the pilot to maintain control of the airplane during a high speed taxi check, which resulted in a lift-off and subsequent collision with the terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that he took the airplane for a taxi run, in order to check the airplane's performance at taxi speed. He further stated that during the taxi run, while halfway down the runway, the airplane became airborne and lurched to the left. He said he then reduced the throttle, cut the mixture control, and turned the fuel selector valve off. The airplane then hit the ground and slid to a stop with damage to the left wing, landing gear, propeller, engine mounts, and windshield.
Source record
Factual narrative
On July 19, 1996, about 1525 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 172, N62224, registered to Farrell Enterprises crashed shortly after takeoff from the Okeechobee Airport, Okeechobee, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. The private-rated pilot, the sole occupant, was seriously injured and the airplane was substantially damaged. The flight was originating at the time of the accident. The pilot stated to an FAA inspector that he took the airplane for a taxi run, in order to check the airplane's performance at taxi speed. He further stated that during the taxi run, while half way down the runway, the airplane became airborne and "lurched" to the left. He then reduced the throttle, cut the mixture control, and turned the fuel selector valve off. The airplane then hit the ground and slid to a stop. Preliminary examination of the crash site revealed that the airplane slid 190 feet from the initial impact point. Further examination of the fuel system revealed no evidence of contamination. Examination of the engine displayed continuity throughout and compression test on all cylinders checked normal. Witnesses stated that they noticed the airplane takeoff to the northeast, the airplane then climbed to 200 feet got just above trees then turned 180 degrees. They observed the airplane descending. They then drove around, saw the airplane on the ground and called the sheriff's office. -