Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The private pilot reported that the airplane "was performing well and didn't have any issues" during the attempted takeoff. When the airplane reached about 60 knots during the takeoff roll, the nosewheel lifted off the runway, and the airplane began immediately turning left. The pilot attempted to arrest the turn with rudder and aileron control inputs, but the airplane continued to turn left, exited the runway, and impacted trees.
Given that the airplane had been performing as expected initially, it is likely that the pilot failed to adequately compensate for the airplane's natural left turning tendencies due to torque effects during the attempted takeoff, which resulted in a loss of directional control.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA18LA070 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 25, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Marathon, Florida
- Nearest airport
- The Florida Keys Marathon Intl (MTH)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 4
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA32R
- N-number
- N47863
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1977
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.