Probable cause
The student pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with tree(s).
NTSB analysis
The solo student pilot reported that during the takeoff roll the airplane veered to the left. The student pilot further reported that he attempted to correct the veer, but was unsuccessful; subsequently the airplane exited the runway to the left and impacted tree(s), which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage.
According to the student pilot there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA220 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 6, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Richmond, Kentucky
- Nearest airport
- Madison (I39)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172
- N-number
- N89847
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1983
- 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.