On May 13, 2001, a Beech D35 (registration N2118D) was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during the takeoff roll. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff roll, an airplane exited the left side of the runway, struck a VASI pillar, crossed ditches and a taxiway, and came to rest near fuel tanks. The pilot reported misplacement of foot on rudder pedal.
Accident Sequence
During the takeoff roll, approximately 1,100 feet down the runway, the airplane veered left and exited the runway surface. It subsequently struck a concrete pillar that supports the visual approach slope indicator (VASI). After the impact, the airplane continued through a ditch, crossed a taxiway, and traversed another ditch on the opposite side of the taxiway before coming to rest in proximity to several above-ground fuel tanks.
Pilot Report
The pilot informed airport personnel that, during the takeoff roll, he had inadvertently placed his right foot on the left rudder pedal.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 13 May 2001 Beech D35 accident near Houston, TX?
During takeoff roll, an airplane exited the left side of the runway, struck a VASI pillar, crossed ditches and a taxiway, and came to rest near fuel tanks. The pilot reported misplacement of foot on rudder pedal.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 May 2001 involved a Beech D35, registration N2118D, at Houston, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during the takeoff roll.
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