Casualties unknown

Accident During Takeoff: Slow Shallow Climb Leads to Tree Strike (N2436H)

Huntersville, NC, US

On August 11, 1990, an Erco 415-C (registration N2436H) was involved in an aviation accident near Huntersville, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT IN COMMAND TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot taking off from a grass airstrip was observed climbing slowly and shallowly before striking tree tops. No mechanical failures were found. The wing leading edge exhibited crushing consistent with a nose-high attitude. Post-crash fire occurred.

Accident Sequence

A private pilot was observed to climb slowly and with a shallow angle after takeoff from a private grass airstrip. The aircraft subsequently crashed into the tops of trees.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the wreckage revealed no failures of the airframe, flight controls, or powerplant. The leading edge of one wing exhibited crushing from the initial impact, which is indicative of a nose-high attitude at the time of collision.

Aircraft Characteristics

The make and model of the airplane involved does not exhibit a distinctive stall break, which is a characteristic that can make recognition of an aerodynamic stall more challenging for pilots.

Post-Crash Fire

An extensive post-crash fire ensued after the impact.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Aug 1990 Erco 415-C accident near Huntersville, NC?

A private pilot taking off from a grass airstrip was observed climbing slowly and shallowly before striking tree tops. No mechanical failures were found. The wing leading edge exhibited crushing consistent with a nose-high attitude. Post-crash fire occurred.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Aug 1990 involved an Erco 415-C, registration N2436H, at Huntersville, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FAILURE OF THE PILOT IN COMMAND TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24075. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.