Casualties unknown

1995-07-02: Beech 23A (N2397Q) — Spearfish, SD

Spearfish, SD, US

On July 2, 1995, a Beech 23A (registration N2397Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Spearfish, SD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN FLYING SPEED RESULTING IN AN AERODYNAMIC STALL. FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THIS ACCIDENT WERE REMEDIAL ACTION BY THE PILOT WAS NOT POSSIBLE DUE TO THE LOW ALTITUDE AT WHICH THE STALL TOOK PLACE. 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

During initial climb after takeoff, the airplane stalled and the pilot pitched the nose down, causing the airplane to descend into the ground. A witness observed a left wing drop just before impact.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that after takeoff, the airplane climbed to approximately 75 to 100 feet above ground level when it began to stall. The pilot stated that he recognized the stall and responded by pitching the nose down. Shortly after this input, the airplane descended and collided with the ground.

Witness Observation

A witness observed the airplane flying at low altitude over a highway. As the airplane crossed the highway, the witness noted an abrupt drop of the left wing, followed by the airplane striking the ground.

Sequence of Events

According to the pilot’s account, the stall developed shortly after reaching an altitude of 75 to 100 feet. The pilot’s immediate action was to lower the nose. However, the airplane subsequently impacted the terrain. The witness’s description indicates that the airplane was at low altitude and that the left wing suddenly dropped before the final collision.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03884. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.