On May 22, 1982, a Beech V35A (registration N6242V) operated by Edward L. Walsh was involved in an aviation accident near Colorado Spring, CO. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported slow acceleration and ground effect after taking off uphill. The aircraft impacted rising terrain during an evasive turn. Investigation found high density altitude and a mixture setting too lean for takeoff.
Flight Account
The pilot reported that the engine run-up was normal and the mixture was leaned at 1700 RPM to obtain initial exhaust gas temperature (EGT) movement off the bottom of the gauge. Takeoff was conducted uphill on Runway 03. The pilot noted that acceleration was slow but attributed it to the upsloping runway and near maximum gross weight. Rotation occurred at 70 to 75 knots after using approximately 70 percent of the runway. After lift-off, the airplane remained in ground effect and would not accelerate. The pilot raised the landing gear and turned to avoid a powerline, but the aircraft impacted rising terrain and skidded to a stop.
Investigation Findings
An investigation revealed that the density altitude was approximately 6,860 feet. According to the operator's manual, a normal runway roll should have been about 1,500 to 1,600 feet. A chief mechanic and a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector reported that the mixture control was found in a position that was too lean for takeoff.
What happened in the 22 May 1982 Beech V35A accident near Colorado Spring, CO?
A pilot reported slow acceleration and ground effect after taking off uphill. The aircraft impacted rising terrain during an evasive turn. Investigation found high density altitude and a mixture setting too lean for takeoff.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 May 1982 involved a Beech V35A, registration N6242V, operated by Edward L. Walsh, at Colorado Spring, CO.
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