On October 21, 1987, a Beech C35 (registration N2028D) operated by Strode, Donald L. was involved in an aviation accident near Ekalaka, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff despite encountering an unexpected tailwind and tall grass conditions, which resulted in an overrun. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft overran the runway during takeoff due to an unexpected tailwind and tall grass, striking a ditch ridge before coming to rest in a field.
What happened
During the initial phase of the takeoff roll, the pilot encountered an unexpected tailwind that significantly impacted acceleration and stopping performance. Recognizing the deteriorating situation, the pilot attempted to abort the takeoff procedure. However, the combination of the tailwind component and tall grass along the runway surface prevented the aircraft from decelerating effectively.
Unable to stop within the available pavement, the aircraft continued off the end of the runway. It traversed two drainage ditches before striking the ridge of a third ditch. The impact brought the aircraft to a halt in an adjacent field.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff despite encountering an unexpected tailwind and tall grass conditions, which resulted in an overrun.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 21 Oct 1987 Beech C35 accident near Ekalaka, MT?
An aircraft overran the runway during takeoff due to an unexpected tailwind and tall grass, striking a ditch ridge before coming to rest in a field.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Oct 1987 involved a Beech C35, registration N2028D, operated by Strode, Donald L., at Ekalaka, MT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff despite encountering an unexpected tailwind and tall grass conditions, which resulted in an overrun.
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