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Casualties unknown

Airplane Strikes Trees During Short Field Takeoff Attempt (N9249S)

Apex, NC, US

On April 25, 1999, a Beech 23 (registration N9249S) operated by Dennis Harrell was involved in an aviation accident near Apex, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane resulting in the airplane drifting, and subsequently impacting with trees. 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 a short field takeoff from runway 09, the pilot applied full power and right rudder. As the nose rotated, a stall warning sounded and the airplane drifted right, striking trees and coming to rest against trees, supported by the left wing.

Event Summary

A pilot conducted a short field takeoff from runway 09. The engine was run to full power, foot brakes were released, and full right rudder was applied in anticipation of a left yaw. Back pressure was applied to the yoke.

Sequence of Events

As the airplane's nose rotated, the stall warning horn sounded and the airplane began to drift to the right. The pilot applied left aileron input but did not release the right rudder pedal. The airplane continued its rightward drift until it struck a tree, which turned the airplane hard to the right. Subsequently, the propeller spinner struck another tree.

Final Position

The airplane came to rest opposite the direction of takeoff, against a clutter of trees, and was supported by the left wing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Apr 1999 Beech 23 accident near Apex, NC?

During a short field takeoff from runway 09, the pilot applied full power and right rudder. As the nose rotated, a stall warning sounded and the airplane drifted right, striking trees and coming to rest against trees, supported by the left wing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Apr 1999 involved a Beech 23, registration N9249S, operated by Dennis Harrell, at Apex, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane resulting in the airplane drifting, and subsequently impacting with trees.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00540. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.