Casualties unknown

Engine Quits After Flap Lever Misidentification on Beech A36TC (N3663K)

Bismarck, ND, US

On November 1, 1985, a Beech A36TC (registration N3663K) was involved in an aviation accident near Bismarck, ND. 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

Shortly after takeoff, a Beech A36TC pilot activated what he believed was the flap retraction lever, causing the engine to quit. A forced landing was made. Investigation revealed the emergency fuel pump switch, located adjacent to the flap lever, caused engine flooding when activated.

Incident Summary

Shortly after takeoff, the pilot of a Beech A36TC aircraft activated what he believed was the flap retraction lever. Immediately afterward, the engine quit. The pilot executed a forced landing approximately 1000 feet from the departure end of the runway.

Investigation Findings

During the subsequent investigation, the engine was started and functioned normally. However, when the emergency fuel pump (EFP) switch was activated, the engine quit due to flooding. This step was repeated several times with the same results. The EFP switch and the flap retraction lever are located approximately two inches apart.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Nov 1985 Beech A36TC accident near Bismarck, ND?

Shortly after takeoff, a Beech A36TC pilot activated what he believed was the flap retraction lever, causing the engine to quit. A forced landing was made. Investigation revealed the emergency fuel pump switch, located adjacent to the flap lever, caused engine flooding when activated.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Nov 1985 involved a Beech A36TC, registration N3663K, at Bismarck, ND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38222. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.