Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the airplane "hesitated" during the takeoff roll due to the added weight of the passengers on board and the grass surface of the departure airstrip. He said he then added "extra" engine power at rotation, and that the left engine accelerated more quickly than the right, which resulted in an adverse yaw to the right and collision with trees along the right side of the runway. The subsequent collision with trees and terrain resulted in substantial damage to the airframe. According to the pilot, there were no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane that would have prevented normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA14CA061 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 3, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Crescent City, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Jim Finlay Farm (28FL)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 4
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aero Commander 680E
- N-number
- N71DF
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1958
- 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.