Casualties unknown

1996-05-06: Beech A36 (N12JE) — Hot Springs, VA

Hot Springs, VA, US

On May 6, 1996, a Beech A36 (registration N12JE) was involved in an aviation accident near Hot Springs, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to attain adequate aircraft speed during takeoff. Related factors were the density altitude and gusty wind conditions. 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

A pilot reported that after a satisfactory preflight and takeoff at 80 knots, the stall warning horn sounded. Despite lowering the nose and retracting the gear, the horn continued. The pilot landed with the gear retracted, coming to rest 600 feet off the runway.

Event Overview

A pilot reported that the weight and balance calculations, preflight inspection, engine start, and engine run-up were completed satisfactorily before departure. The aircraft lifted off at about 80 knots, but shortly after, the stall warning horn sounded. The pilot responded by lowering the nose and retracting the landing gear, but the stall warning horn continued to sound and the airplane felt 'mushy.'

Landing Sequence

Stating that he was running out of runway, the pilot reduced the power to idle and landed. The airplane settled back onto the runway with the gear in the retracted position, and came to rest in the grassy area 600 feet off the departure end of the runway.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that there was no mechanical malfunction. The reported winds at the time of the accident were out of 260 degrees at 12 to 15 knots, with wind gusts up to 25 knots. The pilot also stated that the accident could have been prevented if there was wind shear detecting equipment at the airport to alert pilots of the wind conditions during takeoff and landing operations. The field elevation of the departure airport was 3,792 feet MSL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05786. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.