Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes After Go-Around From Grass Strip (N3939N)

Auburn, OH, US

On June 5, 1983, a Beech 35 (registration N3939N) operated by James J. Rataiczak was involved in an aviation accident near Auburn, OH. 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

An aircraft approached an 1800-foot grass strip from the west. After traveling three-quarters of the runway without touching down, a go-around was initiated. The aircraft narrowly missed trees and wires before entering a near-vertical climb, then fell off on the left wing and crashed into trees.

Approach and Initiation of Go-Around

The aircraft approached the 1800-foot grass strip from the west. According to local residents, the wind was blowing from the west-southeast at 28 to 30 miles per hour. The landing strip was not equipped with a windsock. Witnesses reported that the aircraft traveled approximately three-quarters of the runway length without making contact with the ground. At this point, the crew initiated a go-around and began a turn to avoid obstructions.

Maneuvering and Collision

Witnesses observed the aircraft narrowly miss trees and wires during the go-around maneuver. Following this, the aircraft entered a nearly vertical climb attitude. It then fell off on the left wing and subsequently crashed into trees. The aircraft struck the ground in an almost vertical nose-down attitude.

Post-Crash Examination Findings

Examination of the wreckage after the accident determined that the landing gear was in the extended position and the wing flaps were set at 25 degrees. No other information about the aircraft or flight was provided in the source.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Jun 1983 Beech 35 accident near Auburn, OH?

An aircraft approached an 1800-foot grass strip from the west. After traveling three-quarters of the runway without touching down, a go-around was initiated. The aircraft narrowly missed trees and wires before entering a near-vertical climb, then fell off on the left wing and crashed into trees.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Jun 1983 involved a Beech 35, registration N3939N, operated by James J. Rataiczak, at Auburn, OH.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43231. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.