On June 14, 1986, a Beech C23 (registration N6337U) operated by Aero Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Lamar, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during a go-around maneuver, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground. The opening of the cabin door during climb was a significant factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A private pilot with limited experience in the Cessna 23 experienced a door opening during takeoff climb, leading to a rapid descent and crash during the final approach turn.
What happened
The accident occurred during the takeoff climb phase of flight. The pilot reported that the cabin door opened while the aircraft was climbing out. Possessing only two hours of flying experience in the Cessna 23, the pilot decided to return to the airport for landing. During the maneuver from the base leg to final approach, the nose of the aircraft suddenly dropped. The aircraft began to sink rapidly, and despite efforts to recover, it impacted the ground.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the loss of control. Key findings included the premature opening of the cabin door during climb, which likely contributed to the pilot's decision to return. The sudden nose drop during the turn from base to final suggests a potential stall or control issue exacerbated by the open door and low altitude.
Findings
Contributing factors include the pilot's limited experience in the specific aircraft type and the mechanical failure of the door latching mechanism. The rapid descent and impact indicate that recovery was not possible at the low altitude achieved during the turn.
Cessna 23
pilot error
door malfunction
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during a go-around maneuver, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground. The opening of the cabin door during climb was a significant factor.