On September 3, 1991, a Beech B-33 (registration N1782G) operated by Groendyke, Sanford N was involved in an aviation accident near Asheville, NC. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate runway conditions for takeoff, which led to a rejected takeoff and subsequent collision with a ditch. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a rejected takeoff from a wet, grass airstrip, the aircraft failed to achieve sufficient speed and collided with a ditch at the departure end of the runway.
What happened
The pilot initiated a standard takeoff procedure from an unpaved turf airstrip characterized by tall, wet grass conditions. As the aircraft accelerated along the takeoff roll, it became apparent that the surface conditions prevented the airplane from achieving the necessary performance for a safe departure. Recognizing that neither a successful takeoff nor a safe climbout was possible under these circumstances, the pilot made the decision to reject the takeoff.
During the abort sequence, the aircraft failed to stop within the available runway length and collided with a ditch located off the departure end of the strip. This impact resulted in substantial structural damage to the airframe.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate runway conditions for takeoff, which led to a rejected takeoff and subsequent collision with a ditch.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Sept 1991 Beech B-33 accident near Asheville, NC?
During a rejected takeoff from a wet, grass airstrip, the aircraft failed to achieve sufficient speed and collided with a ditch at the departure end of the runway.
Were there any fatalities in the 3 Sept 1991 Beech B-33 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Sept 1991 involved a Beech B-33, registration N1782G, operated by Groendyke, Sanford N, at Asheville, NC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate runway conditions for takeoff, which led to a rejected takeoff and subsequent collision with a ditch.
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