Cessna 208B N976E accident near Healy, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the departure roll resulting in a collision with a tractor/loader.

NTSB analysis

During the departure roll from a remote, rough, and uneven gravel-and-dirt airstrip, the airplane encountered a bounce. As a result, the pilot’s foot inadvertently slipped off the rudder pedal, leading to a loss of directional control. The airplane veered to the left, toward a tractor/loader parked adjacent to the airstrip.

The pilot elected to abort the takeoff; however, during the deviation, the airplane passed the tractor/loader on its left side. Although the pilot was able to bring the airplane to a stop, she was unaware that the left wing had struck the tractor/loader.

Subsequently, the pilot taxied the airplane back to the departure end of the airstrip and conducted another takeoff, which was uneventful. The flight continued to the intended destination without further incident.

Following arrival, a postflight inspection revealed substantial damage to the left wing spar cap assembly consistent with impact with the tractor/loader.

The operator reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC25LA110 for the full record.