Casualties unknown

Improper Trim and Stall Warning Precede Runway Excursion During Takeoff (N9500R)

Fillmore, UT, US

On January 13, 2000, a Beech K35 (registration N9500R) operated by Duane R. Adams was involved in an aviation accident near Fillmore, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper use of elevator trim, resulting in his failure to obtain sufficient takeoff airspeed and subsequent inadvertent stall/mush. A Factor was his failure to follow the preflight checklist. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, the aircraft lifted off prematurely with stall warning, settled, then lifted again. The pilot reduced throttle, causing the aircraft to veer left into grass.

Event Description

During the takeoff roll, the aircraft was incorrectly trimmed. As a result, the aircraft departed the runway prematurely while the stall warning horn was sounding. The airplane lifted off the runway, briefly settled back down onto the runway surface, and then immediately lifted off the runway again. The pilot subsequently retarded the throttle, and the aircraft departed the runway to the left into the grass.

Pilot Recommendation

When asked what recommendation the pilot could make regarding how the accident could have been prevented, the pilot stated that the use of a checklist would have been beneficial.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20351. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.