Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from terrain during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during takeoff from a private dirt runway, the main wheel landing gear struck a dirt berm. Subsequently, the airplane nosed over and a postaccident fire ensued, which consumed the fuselage and inboard portion of both wings. 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 WPR14CA107 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 26, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Wikieup, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- Private Airport (PVT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 170
- N-number
- N2594V
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1948
- Damage
- Destroyed
- 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.