N739RS

On June 21, 2002, at 0900 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 172N, N739RS, was substantially damaged during a takeoff attempt from the Rutland State Airport (RUT), Rutland, Vermont. The certificated recreational pilot was not injured and the passenger received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the local personal flight, conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

In a telephone interview, the pilot said that he taxied the airplane onto runway 19, added full power, and initiated the takeoff roll. He "failed to maintain centerline," and about 300 feet down the runway, the airplane veered off the left side. The pilot corrected "to the right," the airplane's right wing rose, and the airplane nosed over to the left.

The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the airplane. He also reported about 138 hours of total flight time, 11 of which, were in make and model.

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector examined the airplane after the accident. According to the inspector, substantial damage was noted to both wings and the fuselage. Flight control continuity was established from the flight controls to the cockpit. Visual observation of the brake system revealed no mechanical anomalies.

The weather reported at the airport at 0855, included calm winds, 4 miles visibility, and clear skies.