Casualties unknown

Right Door Opens During Takeoff, Propeller Strikes Runway, Gear Collapses (N18HM)

Lovington, NM, US

On December 7, 1982, a Beech 58 (registration N18HM) operated by Roger C. Hanks was involved in an aviation accident near Lovington, NM. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff with a light crosswind, the right passenger door opened. The pilot attempted to secure it, causing the propeller to strike the runway and the right main gear to collapse. The pilot continued the takeoff and performed an emergency landing, during which a propeller blade separated and penetrated the fuselage.

Event

The pilot reported that during takeoff with a light crosswind, the right passenger door opened. While attempting to catch papers and hold the door closed, the right propeller struck the runway, and the right main landing gear began collapsing. At that point, the pilot determined that insufficient runway remained to abort the takeoff and therefore continued.

Emergency Landing

An emergency landing was performed on the same runway by setting the aircraft down on the left main and nose landing gear. As the speed reduced, the right wing settled, and a propeller blade separated and penetrated the fuselage.

Inspection

No discrepancy was reported concerning the door latch.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Dec 1982 Beech 58 accident near Lovington, NM?

During takeoff with a light crosswind, the right passenger door opened. The pilot attempted to secure it, causing the propeller to strike the runway and the right main gear to collapse. The pilot continued the takeoff and performed an emergency landing, during which a propeller blade separated and penetrated the…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Dec 1982 involved a Beech 58, registration N18HM, operated by Roger C. Hanks, at Lovington, NM.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04714. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.