Cessna 172S Damaged After Striking Gas Cap During Takeoff in Denton

A Cessna 172S sustained substantial damage during takeoff near Denton, Texas, on May 13, 2026, after striking a gas cap that had fallen from another aircraft. The pilot of N2134M was uninjured in the 6:15 p.m. accident, according to the National Transportation Safety Board.

The NTSB preliminary report indicates the aircraft became airborne below its normal rotation speed after hitting the debris on the runway. The impact caused the control yoke to jam, preventing the pilot from lowering the aircraft's nose. As the Cessna drifted left at an altitude of five to seven feet, the pilot attempted to counter with aileron and rudder inputs before reducing power, resulting in a hard landing.

The accident highlights ongoing runway safety concerns at smaller airports. The NTSB and Federal Aviation Administration continue investigating the incident, which was operated under Part 91 regulations as a personal flight. A probable cause determination is pending.