Casualties unknown

Door Opening During Takeoff Leads to Runway Excursion and Fire (N6741V)

W Kingston, RI, US

On January 8, 1990, a Beech V35B (registration N6741V) operated by Hayden Machinery,inc. was involved in an aviation accident near W Kingston, RI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRCRAFT, WHILE ATTEMPTING TO CLOSE THE PASSENGER'S DOOR DURING TAKEOFF. THE UNSECURED PASSENGER DOOR WAS A RELATED FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff roll, a passenger-side door opened. The pilot attempted to secure it, then tried to stop and fly but was too slow. The aircraft drifted left, impacted trees and a swampy area beyond the runway, and burned.

Accident Overview

The accident occurred during the takeoff roll as the aircraft approached rotation speed. The door on the passenger's side opened unexpectedly. The pilot leaned across the passenger in an effort to secure the door, but was unable to close it. Subsequently, the pilot attempted to bring the aircraft to a stop within the remaining runway length. After this attempt, the pilot attempted to become airborne but the aircraft was traveling too slowly to achieve lift. Recognizing the imminent collision, the pilot reduced power to minimize the force of the impact.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft then drifted to the left, departing the runway environment. It struck trees and came to rest in a swampy area beyond the runway's end. A fire ensued following the impact. The aircraft was consumed by the fire.

Investigation Details

No other information regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, date, time of day, or number of occupants has been released by the investigating authority. The report does not specify any injuries or fatalities, nor does it provide details on weather conditions, ATC involvement, or causal analysis.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22485. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.