Loss of Control in Flight · NTSB NYC08FA174

BEECH A35 — Americus, GA

3 fatal High-time pilot
DateMay 3, 2008
LocationAmericus, GA
AircraftBEECH A35
Purpose of flightPersonal
ConditionsDay · Visual Meteorological Cond
Phase / occurrenceUncontrolled descent Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)
Pilot age42
Pilot total time1,430 hrs · Experienced
Time in typeUnknown
Fatalities3

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control during the initial climb for undetermined reasons.

NTSB findings

  • Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-(general)-Not attained/maintained - C
  • Not determined-Not determined-(general)-(general)-Unknown/Not determined - C

What happened

A lineman on the field reported seeing the accident airplane taxi out from its parking place to the runway and begin the takeoff roll without performing a run-up inspection of the airplane. The lineman further reported that the pilot appeared to be "in a hurry." Another eyewitness who was located inside a hangar near the departure end of the runway reported hearing the engine of the airplane accelerate. When he stepped outside the hangar he saw the airplane coming towards him and began a gentle roll to his right until the wings were perpendicular to the ground. He did not see the airplane impact the ground; however, he stated that he never heard the engine falter and that it was running at takeoff power until the sound of impact. An examination of the airframe and engine did not reveal any preimpact deficiencies.

An editorial "what led to it / how to avoid it" analysis for this accident is generated separately and will appear here.

View the official NTSB docket →