On April 19, 1989, a Beech B19 (registration N2231L) operated by Maine Instrument Flight School was involved in an aviation accident near Augusta, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN THE PROPER ALTITUDE DURING THE APPROACH. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: THE PILOT'S PSYCHOLOGICAL CONDITION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Shortly after takeoff, an aircraft crashed into a dirt bluff 197 ft short of runway 8 and 22 ft below runway level. Witnesses reported no deviation or wing rocking. No pre-existing engine or airframe failure was found.
Introduction
An aircraft crashed into a dirt bluff shortly after takeoff, coming to rest 197 feet short of runway 8 and 22 feet below the runway's elevation.
Witness Observations
Witnesses who observed the crash reported that the aircraft did not deviate from its flight path or rock its wings prior to impact.
Examination
Investigators found no evidence of pre-existing failure or malfunction in either the engine or the airframe. The propeller exhibited deep leading-edge marks and chordwise striations.
Pilot Background
The pilot, who was thrown clear of the wreckage, did not appear to have been using a seat belt, as no evidence of seat belt usage was found. The pilot was employed as an investment banker and had recently been placed on leave with pay while his financial transactions were being reviewed.