On December 23, 1987, a Beech A36 (registration N27LH) was involved in an aviation accident near Angel Fire, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to lift off early in strong crosswind conditions, which led to an aerodynamic stall. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private aircraft stalled and impacted the ground shortly after takeoff due to a strong left crosswind, resulting in significant damage to the airframe.
What happened
The pilot was operating a private flight with five passengers aboard, returning from a skiing trip. During the takeoff phase, the aircraft encountered a significant left crosswind estimated at forty knots from two hundred seventy degrees. The pilot lifted off earlier than normal for the conditions. Shortly after becoming airborne, the wind pushed the aircraft laterally. The aircraft stalled and impacted the ground to the right of the runway. The main landing gear and wings sustained damage. The aircraft came to rest in a nose-down position beside the runway.
Findings
The stall occurred during the initial climb phase due to the combination of an early lift-off and strong crosswind conditions.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to lift off early in strong crosswind conditions, which led to an aerodynamic stall.
What happened in the 23 Dec 1987 Beech A36 accident near Angel Fire, NM?
A private aircraft stalled and impacted the ground shortly after takeoff due to a strong left crosswind, resulting in significant damage to the airframe.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Dec 1987 involved a Beech A36, registration N27LH, at Angel Fire, NM.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to lift off early in strong crosswind conditions, which led to an aerodynamic stall.
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