Collision during takeoff/land: Cessna 172L Skyhawk, N7864G, accident occurred on February 28, 2026, in Bennettsville, South Carolina

• Location: Bennettsville, South Carolina 
• Accident Number: ERA26LA132 
• Date & Time: February 28, 2026, 13:30 Local 
• Registration: N7864G 
• Aircraft: Cessna 172L 
• Aircraft Damage: Substantial 
• Defining Event: Collision during takeoff/land 
• Injuries: 1 Minor 
• Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal 

https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-repgen/api/Aviation/ReportMain/GenerateNewestReport/202567/pdf

https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket?ProjectID=202567

The pilot was attempting to land on a private grass runway but due to sun glare, inadvertently landed in an adjacent field. The pilot then taxied to a nearby paved road and attempted to take off with the intent to land at the private grass runway. During the takeoff roll, the airplane collided with trees resulting in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

- Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from trees on takeoff from a rural road.