Incident Overview
An aircraft, N736HV, was involved in an accident after a sequence of errors during taxi, takeoff, and landing. The pilot displayed difficulty following taxi instructions before departure. Subsequently, the pilot initiated a takeoff without clearance, conflicting with crossing traffic.
Flight Sequence
Upon returning to land, the pilot was cleared for right traffic to Runway 18. Instead, the aircraft entered a left downwind for Runway 24, placing it into opposing traffic. The tower issued collision avoidance advice to other aircraft and later cleared N736HV to land on Runway 24. However, the pilot overshot the turn to final approach and maneuvered back toward the runway centerline.
Collision and Aftermath
During the maneuver, the aircraft collided with a 70-foot tree on residential property approximately one mile from the approach end of the runway. The aircraft then impacted the ground and slid inverted for about 80 yards. Both occupants sustained head injuries. The passenger remained unconscious for approximately two months following the accident.
Toxicology Findings
A blood test of the pilot revealed an alcohol level of 175 mg% (0.175%).