Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the airplane’s cockpit temperature was extremely hot during the taxi to the runway. During the takeoff roll, the pilot applied full engine power and the airplane drifted left of the runway centerline. The pilot attempted to correct with a right rudder input, but the airplane continued to go to the left. The airplane struck a runway sign and lights on the left side of the runway, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN21LA269 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 14, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Corpus Christi, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Corpus Christi Intl (CRP)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-28R-180
- N-number
- N7476J
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1968
- 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.