On August 12, 1994, a Beech 23 (registration N2341L) was involved in an aviation accident near Freeport, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and the instructor's inadequate supervision. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A training flight on runway 21 resulted in a tree strike after the student pilot froze at the controls and the instructor could not regain control. Witnesses reported a high pitch-right bank attitude.
Incident Overview
During a training flight, an aircraft struck trees while taking off from runway 21. The instructor reported that they were performing a short field takeoff when the student pilot 'froze' at the control wheel. The instructor was unable to regain control of the airplane, which then drifted to the right and struck trees at the end and to the right of the runway.
Student Pilot's Account
The student pilot, who had accumulated 39 hours of total flight time, stated that the airplane was flying in ground effect but would not gain altitude.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported that after lifting off, the airplane exhibited a high pitch-right bank attitude before striking the trees.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 12 Aug 1994 Beech 23 accident near Freeport, PA?
A training flight on runway 21 resulted in a tree strike after the student pilot froze at the controls and the instructor could not regain control. Witnesses reported a high pitch-right bank attitude.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Aug 1994 involved a Beech 23, registration N2341L, at Freeport, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The student pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and the instructor's inadequate supervision.
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