On October 15, 1985, a Beech V35B (registration N18316) was involved in an aviation accident near Sullivan, MO. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft was observed transitioning from level flight to a steep climb before stalling and spiraling downward. The plane impacted vertically in a wooded area, resulting in an explosion and fire upon impact.
What happened
The aircraft was initially observed flying at a constant altitude. It then abruptly transitioned from level flight into a straight vertical climb. Shortly after reaching the apex of this maneuver, the aircraft stalled. Following the stall, it turned over and began a spiral descent directly toward the ground while the throttle remained fully advanced.
Impact marks on the terrain indicated that the aircraft had descended nearly vertically. The initial point of contact was the nose of the aircraft. The crash site was located within a wooded area. Despite the severity of the impact, there was no damage to surrounding tree limbs or trunks, suggesting the aircraft did not strike vegetation before hitting the ground. Upon striking the earth, the aircraft exploded and subsequently caught fire.
What happened in the 15 Oct 1985 Beech V35B accident near Sullivan, MO?
An aircraft was observed transitioning from level flight to a steep climb before stalling and spiraling downward. The plane impacted vertically in a wooded area, resulting in an explosion and fire upon impact.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Oct 1985 involved a Beech V35B, registration N18316, at Sullivan, MO.
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