Probable cause
A leak in the pitot-static system for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information, which resulted in an airspeed indication error, an aborted takeoff, and a subsequent runway overrun.
NTSB analysis
During the takeoff roll on an instructional flight, the instructor noticed that the airspeed was not increasing above 50 knots. He aborted the takeoff, during which the airplane overran the runway end and collided with a berm, resulting in substantial damage. The airplane was recovered for examination and a pitot-static system test revealed significant errors in airspeed indication due to a leak in the system. The airplane’s maintenance logs were not provided for review, and the maintenance history of the pitot-static system could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA19LA031 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 28, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Elba, Alabama
- Nearest airport
- Carl Folsom (14J)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 182
- N-number
- N20BK
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1978
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.