Casualties unknown

Aircraft Collides with Terrain During Takeoff from Pasture Following Earlier Forced Landing (N4447V)

Middletown, PA, US

On October 6, 1984, a Beech V35 (registration N4447V) was involved in an aviation accident near Middletown, PA. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft that had been forced landed in a pasture due to power loss was attempting to depart when witnesses observed the left wing strike the ground. The aircraft climbed briefly in a nose-high attitude, turned left steeply, then descended into terrain.

Background

Approximately two weeks before the accident, the aircraft experienced a loss of power and was forced to land in a pasture. The pilot subsequently made repairs to the aircraft in preparation for a departure from the same location.

Takeoff Attempt

Witnesses observed the aircraft during its takeoff run. As the aircraft accelerated, the left wing came into contact with the ground just prior to lift-off. Following this wing strike, the aircraft became airborne in a nose-high attitude and began a slight climb.

Collision

Shortly after becoming airborne, the aircraft initiated a left turn. During the turn, the nose dropped while the aircraft was in a steep left bank. The aircraft then collided with terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Oct 1984 Beech V35 accident near Middletown, PA?

An aircraft that had been forced landed in a pasture due to power loss was attempting to depart when witnesses observed the left wing strike the ground. The aircraft climbed briefly in a nose-high attitude, turned left steeply, then descended into terrain.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Oct 1984 involved a Beech V35, registration N4447V, at Middletown, PA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41456. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.