Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
the pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll by diverting his attention.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
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.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# LAX96LA030