Casualties unknown

Passenger Door Opens During Takeoff; Power Loss Precedes Short Landing (N3331V)

Crystal Beach, TX, US

On December 26, 1993, a Beech 35 (registration N3331V) was involved in an aviation accident near Crystal Beach, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: WAS A TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. FACTORS WERE A PASSENGER DOOR INADVERTENTLY OPENING IN FLIGHT DUE TO INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT BY THE PILOT, UNSUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING, AND CARBURETOR ICING CONDITIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

During initial climb, the passenger door inadvertently opened. The pilot performed emergency procedures and remained in the traffic pattern. On final approach at 300 feet, engine power was lost and the airplane landed short of the runway in wet terrain, hitting a fence.

Incident Overview

During the takeoff initial climb, the passenger door of the airplane inadvertently opened. The pilot immediately initiated the appropriate emergency procedures and remained in the airport traffic pattern to prepare for a landing.

Approach and Landing

On the final approach, the pilot reported a total loss of engine power at approximately 300 feet above ground level. The airplane subsequently landed short of the runway in wet terrain. During the ground roll, the aircraft struck a fence.

Post-Incident Examination

An examination of the engine was conducted following the incident. The inspection did not reveal any anomalies that would have contributed to a loss of engine power.

Environmental Conditions

The pilot reported a temperature dewpoint spread of 3 degrees Fahrenheit at the time of the incident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13863. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.