Casualties unknown

Landing Incident on Turf Runway with Throttle Binding (N3EM)

Calamus, IA, US

On May 21, 1985, a Beech 35-B33 (registration N3EM) was involved in an aviation accident near Calamus, IA. 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

A pilot landed on a 1700 ft turf runway sloping downhill and hit a dirt bank after touching down 572 ft from the departure end. The pilot reported throttle binding during landing and was aware of the issue beforehand.

Incident Details

During arrival, the pilot landed on a 1700-foot turf runway that sloped downhill to the north. A 30-foot power line was located near the approach end of the runway. The aircraft touched down 572 feet from the departure end, then continued off the runway and struck a dirt bank adjacent to a drainage ditch.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that the throttle was binding and that it hung up momentarily when he was retarding it during landing. He was aware of the throttle discrepancy before the flight.

Airport Information

The U.S. Airport/Facility Directory listing for this airport stated: 'RWY 17-35 LAND ONLY TO THE SOUTH.'

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 May 1985 Beech 35-B33 accident near Calamus, IA?

A pilot landed on a 1700 ft turf runway sloping downhill and hit a dirt bank after touching down 572 ft from the departure end. The pilot reported throttle binding during landing and was aware of the issue beforehand.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 May 1985 involved a Beech 35-B33, registration N3EM, at Calamus, IA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36558. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.