Casualties unknown

Bonanza Takeoff Accident: Pilot Reports Loss of Control During Takeoff Roll (N1255Z)

Arlington, WA, US

On October 23, 2000, a Beech N35 (registration N1255Z) operated by John K. Wimpress was involved in an aviation accident near Arlington, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to abort the takeoff upon experiencing directional control difficulties. Factors included the pilot's failure or inability to maintain directional control, and a taxiway sign. 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 roll, the pilot experienced oscillations and drifted off the left side of the runway, hitting a runway light and taxiway sign, causing nose gear collapse.

Accident Sequence

The pilot initiated the takeoff roll and applied full right rudder to compensate for engine torque. Despite this, the aircraft began drifting to the right. The pilot then reduced right rudder input, after which the aircraft started drifting left. Attempts to correct back to the centerline had no apparent effect. The pilot recalled a strong swerve to the right followed by another to the left. As the aircraft neared takeoff speed, it ran off the left side of the runway. The pilot stated that from the onset of oscillations until the runway excursion, he did not have time or presence of mind to reduce power.

Damage

The aircraft struck a runway light and a taxiway identification light during the excursion. The collision with the taxiway sign caused the nose gear to collapse. The aircraft then traveled approximately 300 feet on its nose before coming to a stop.

Pilot Statement

The pilot characterized the accident aircraft as more difficult to control during taxi and takeoff compared to other similar aircraft. He noted that this particular Bonanza always had a slight free play in the nose wheel steering, though it was within specifications during the last annual inspection.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22254. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.