Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The student pilot reported that he was practicing touch-and-go takeoffs and landings. The landing that immediately preceded the accident was uneventful; however, as the airplane accelerated for takeoff, it veered to the left. Despite the pilot’s control inputs, the airplane continued to veer to the left and struck a runway sign, substantially damaging the fuselage and empennage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12CA357 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 14, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Everett, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Snohomish County Airport (PAE)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172R
- N-number
- N863CP
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.