Casualties unknown

1991-03-21: Beech 55 (N711RY) — Pacific Air Charter — Burbank, CA

Burbank, CA, US

On March 21, 1991, a Beech 55 (registration N711RY) operated by Pacific Air Charter was involved in an aviation accident near Burbank, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT MISJUDGED THE LIFTOFF SPEED, AND PREMATURELY ROTATED THE AIRCRAFT FOR TAKEOFF. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft overturned during takeoff, rolling left and coming to rest inverted about 100 ft off the runway, after witnesses observed it beginning rotation earlier than expected.

Accident Overview

During the takeoff roll, after traveling approximately 1,000 ft, the aircraft was observed by witnesses beginning its rotation. Tower personnel reported that they could see the belly of the aircraft. The aircraft then rolled left, its left wing contacted the runway, and it continued to an inverted position.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft slid down the runway before veering off onto the grass on the north side. It came to rest inverted about 100 ft off the runway, approximately 1,380 ft from the point where the takeoff roll began.

Aircraft Performance Data

According to the aircraft operating handbook, the normal takeoff distance to the point of rotation and liftoff should be between 1,350 and 1,400 ft. This distance was computed using the aircraft's weight and the reported weather conditions at the time of the accident.

Environmental Conditions

A departing Boeing 737 had been cleared for takeoff about 5 minutes prior to the accident aircraft's takeoff roll, operating on the opposite runway. The winds were calm.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16618. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.