Cargo Shift Causes Loss of Control After Takeoff

Casualties unknown • Fresno, CA, US

A cargo aircraft suffered a pitch-up and roll after takeoff due to improperly secured freight exceeding bulkhead limits, resulting in a fence collision and fire.

What happened

Shortly after liftoff from runway 29R, the aircraft began to pitch upward. As this pitch-up progressed, the pilot applied right aileron and full right rudder. The aircraft responded by rolling to the right with the nose falling through. Subsequently, the pilot was able to pull out before the aircraft hit the ground. It collided with a 6 ft wire fence which tore off the engines and caused the aircraft to rotate clockwise on the ground. Cargo in the aircraft was thrown thru the side of the fuselage. The pilot exited the aircraft without injury. The aircraft immediately burst into flames and the fuselage was badly burned.

The investigation

An investigation revealed that 2989 lbs of freight plus a 359 lb motorcycle were being carried between bulkheads 5 & 11. The bulkhead loads were limited to 450 lbs (5-8) and 300 lbs (8-10). The max gross weight at takeoff was estimated to be 10,310 lbs.

Findings

The pilot reported that none of the freight was tied down. This improper loading and lack of restraint contributed to the sudden shift in center of gravity and subsequent loss of control.

Probable cause

Improper cargo loading and failure to secure freight, which caused a shift in the center of gravity and resulted in a loss of control during initial climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1982-06-19 Beech H-18 accident near Fresno, CA?

A cargo aircraft suffered a pitch-up and roll after takeoff due to improperly secured freight exceeding bulkhead limits, resulting in a fence collision and fire.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1982-06-19 involved a Beech H-18, registration N74JT, operated by West States Air Taxi, at Fresno, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Improper cargo loading and failure to secure freight, which caused a shift in the center of gravity and resulted in a loss of control during initial climb.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03661. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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