N6977H

On August 26, 1995, at 1205 central daylight time (cdt), a Cessna 172M, N6977H, piloted by a commercial pilot, was destroyed when it collided with the ground shortly after takeoff. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight was not operating on a flight plan. The pilot was seriously injured and the passenger received minor injuries. The flight departed Independence, Missouri, at 1205 cdt.

The pilot said he was unable to recall the events associated with the accident due to his injuries. Witnesses reported observing the airplane lift off the runway and climb to about 75 feet above the ground. They said its wing's banked left and right about 30 degrees in each direction. They said the airplane stalled and rolled to the right, pitched down, and descended vertically until colliding with the ground.

The on-scene investigation revealed control continuity for all three controls, and a full nose up elevator trim tab position. The pilot's seat shoulder harness was found in the stowed position. Examination of N6977H's engine revealed no mechanical anomalies that would prevent it from producing power.