Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Takeoff Leads to Forced Landing (N3295C)

Albuquerque, NM, US

On April 14, 1996, a Beech E35 (registration N3295C) was involved in an aviation accident near Albuquerque, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a partial loss of engine power for undetermined reasons, and the pilot's failure to abort the takeoff. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, a pilot noticed reduced engine power and continued the climb. The aircraft settled, prompting a left turn to land on a dirt road, where it struck concrete debris and came to rest. The cause of power loss could not be determined.

Accident Sequence

During the takeoff roll, the pilot observed a 'flat spot in the power' as the throttle was advanced. The engine rpm reached 2400 instead of the expected 2500. Despite this anomaly, the pilot decided to continue the takeoff.

After liftoff, during the initial climb, 'the aircraft started to settle.' The pilot assessed that there was 'insufficient remaining runway to attempt to abort.' He then executed a 90-degree left turn, aiming to land on a dirt road.

The airplane touched down beside the road, where it struck 'a piece of concrete debris.' It subsequently came to rest on the road.

Findings

The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Apr 1996 Beech E35 accident near Albuquerque, NM?

During takeoff, a pilot noticed reduced engine power and continued the climb. The aircraft settled, prompting a left turn to land on a dirt road, where it struck concrete debris and came to rest. The cause of power loss could not be determined.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Apr 1996 involved a Beech E35, registration N3295C, at Albuquerque, NM.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

a partial loss of engine power for undetermined reasons, and the pilot's failure to abort the takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05557. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.