Casualties unknown

1985-09-16: Beech E-33 (N3493A) — Coalinga, CA

Coalinga, CA, US

On September 16, 1985, a Beech E-33 (registration N3493A) was involved in an aviation accident near Coalinga, CA. 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

An aircraft experienced a runway excursion, became airborne briefly, then struck its tail and crashed in a plowed field, damaging the right wing, right stabilizer, landing gear, and nose.

Incident Details

The accident occurred when the aircraft, during takeoff, veered left off the runway and subsequently crashed in a plowed field approximately one-quarter mile east of the departure runway. The aircraft became airborne after traversing about 950 feet of ground roll but flew only about 400 feet before the tail contacted the ground, leading to the crash.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that the aircraft became "squirrelly" on the runway and departed the left side despite her application of right rudder.

Track Analysis

Ground track evidence indicates that the aircraft left the runway after 250 feet of roll. Braking was applied for approximately 600 feet, initially on the left brake, then on both brakes simultaneously, and finally solely on the right brake.

Damage Assessment

The impact damaged the right wing, right stabilizer, landing gear, and the nose of the aircraft.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37805. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.