Casualties unknown

Loss of Directional Control on Departure Leads to Tree Strike and Post-Crash Fire (N3191V)

Boonville, NY, US

On June 6, 1999, a Beech BE-35 (registration N3191V) was involved in an aviation accident near Boonville, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to attain takeoff speed and his failure to maintain directional control. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During departure with a tailwind and low airspeed, the pilot lost directional control, struck trees, and the aircraft was consumed by post-crash fire. Occupants sustained minor injuries.

Departure and Loss of Control

The pilot initiated the takeoff with a tailwind and rotated at a low airspeed. At liftoff, directional control was lost, causing the airplane to drift left. It subsequently struck two small trees located along the left side of the runway.

Collision and Post-Crash Fire

After colliding with the trees, the airplane rotated 180 degrees and came to rest upright, facing opposite the direction of travel. The occupants escaped with minor injuries. A post-crash fire then engulfed and consumed the airplane.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane. He stated, "I took off the runway too slow and the torque just took over."

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19011. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.