On October 2, 1992, a Beech N35 (registration N885R) operated by Aeronautical Services, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Burlington, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF SCREWS ON THE PROPELLER HUB DURING TAKEOFF, THE IMPROPER INFLIGHT DECISION BY THE PILOT TO RETURN FOR LANDING, AND THE STEEP, EXCESSIVE BANK ANGLE WHICH RESULTED IN A STALL/SPIN AND LOSS OF CONTROL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff, an aircraft made loud rhythmic noises, then engine sounds decreased. It turned back steeply, descended nose-down, and crashed in flames. Wreckage revealed a partially separated propeller hub balance ring and fatigue-cracked mounting screws.
Accident Sequence
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft produced loud rhythmic noises. It reached the end of the runway at a low altitude in an initial climb when the engine sounds decreased. The landing gear was extended, and the aircraft entered a steep turn back toward the airport. During the turn, the nose dropped, and the aircraft descended nose-down, impacting the ground and igniting in flames.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed a partially separated propeller cylinder hub balance ring. Further examination of the propeller showed that one cylinder mounting screw was missing and four mounting screws contained fatigue cracking.
Surrounding Area
There was a cleared area off the end of the takeoff runway and a large, level pasture beyond the cleared area.