NTSB Factual Report

On July 12, 2006, approximately 0820 mountain daylight time, a Cessna 182B, N2434G, sustained substantial damage subsequent to an in-flight collision with trees during takeoff at the Big Creek Airport, Big Creek, Idaho. The private pilot and both passengers received serious injuries. The airplane was registered to the pilot and was being operated under the provisions of Title 14 CFR Part 91 when the accident occurred. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the cross-country flight. The pilot's intended destination was Nampa, Idaho.

The pilot reported that during the takeoff and initial climb the airplane drifted to the right of the runway center. The pilot stated that rudder inputs were ineffective and the airplane continued to drift to the right, eventually colliding with trees and terrain along the eastern border of the airfield.

Pictures of the accident airplane during the takeoff roll showed the aircraft in a left crab, right wing-low attitude just as the aircraft broke ground. A second picture showed the aircraft well right of the takeoff runway at an altitude lower than adjacent treetops.

Post accident examination of the wreckage, by representatives from the Federal Aviation Administration Boise, Idaho, Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) and Cessna Aircraft revealed no evidence of a pre impact mechanical malfunction or failure.

Big Creek Airport is located in mountainous terrain adjacent to the Frank Church Wilderness area. The airport elevation is 5,743 feet above sea level, and has a single turf runway (01/19), which is 3,550 feet long and 110 feet wide.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the aircraft during takeoff and initial climb out.