Casualties unknown

1983-03-18: Cessna 421C (N67943) — Gunnison, CO

Gunnison, CO, US

On March 18, 1983, a Cessna 421C (registration N67943) was involved in an aviation accident near Gunnison, CO. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff on Runway 06 with a crosswind, the aircraft vibrated and shuddered twice, failed to lift off, and went off the runway. The gear collapsed upon landing in soft soil and high grass.

Takeoff Attempt

The pilot began taking off on Runway 06 with a wind from 190 degrees at 8 knots. He stated that maximum power and RPM were obtained, noting 39 inches of manifold pressure and 2235 RPM at 100 knots IAS. The aircraft rotated properly, but began to vibrate and shudder and would not lift off. The pilot then lowered the nose and accelerated to 110 knots IAS, but again the aircraft only vibrated and shuddered and would not lift off.

Aborted Takeoff

The pilot began aborting the takeoff. The aircraft went off the end of the runway at 70 to 80 knots and became airborne for approximately 75 feet as it went over a drop off in the terrain.

Landing and Damage

Subsequently, the aircraft landed in soft soil and high grass, where the gear collapsed.

Environmental Conditions

An investigation revealed that the temperature was 30 degrees and snow was falling. The pilot believed the accident resulted from cold temperatures along with water blown onto the tail surfaces of the aircraft. He did not describe the surface condition on the wings. The stall speed for this aircraft was 86 knots at the maximum gross weight and was within weight and balance limits.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42408. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.