Cessna 120 N90129 accident near Sturtevant, Wisconsin

Probable cause

The pilot’s loss of directional control during the takeoff for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence, which resulted in a runway excursion.

NTSB analysis

A review airport security camera footage showed the airplane was attempting to depart to the east. About a quarter way down the length of the runway after the beginning of the takeoff roll, the airplane departed the runway to the left (north). Airport security video footage showed the airplane travel over a flat grass field with the engine running. The footage did not show the airplane become airborne at any time, and the tailwheel appeared to remain on the ground during the runway excursion. The airplane came to rest after it impacted the cabin of an unoccupied, parked fuel truck. The pilot reported he recalled taxiing for takeoff and applying engine power for the takeoff; however, he was unable to recall any additional events.

Postaccident examination of the airframe revealed no mechanical anomalies.

The postaccident emergency care did not identify any medical conditions the pilot had that might have contributed to the accident. The pilot’s pre-accident use of atorvastatin, famotidine, and fexofenadine, all non-impairing medications identified by toxicology testing of the pilot’s samples, also did not contribute to the circumstances of this accident.

It is likely a loss of control occurred during the takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion and a collision with an object. Based on the available evidence, the reason for the loss of control could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN22LA103 for the full record.