Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff ground run. Contributing to the accident were the pilot's deteriorated physical and mental capabilities.
NTSB analysis
The 84-year-old pilot reported that the airplane did not seem to have enough power to become airborne during the takeoff. The airplane veered off the right side of the runway, where it came to rest after contacting trees and scrub brush. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. Neither the pilot nor the airplane had flown during the past 3 years. The pilot did not hold a current medical certificate. The pilot's wife reported that he suffered a fall 3 years ago and that his physical and mental capabilities were such that he should not have been trying to fly the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA557 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 2, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Rosedale, Michigan
- Nearest airport
- Rosedale Airport (PVT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 150F
- N-number
- N6446F
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.