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Casualties unknown

Takeoff Stall and Collision with Terrain After Attempted Lift-Off (N735C)

Rosamond, CA, US

On October 14, 2001, a Stinson 108-3 (registration N735C) was involved in an aviation accident near Rosamond, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to attain sufficient airspeed during the attempted takeoff, which resulted in a stall/mush. The airplane's failure to accelerate was due to a disintegrated bearing on the camshaft. 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 takeoff, the airplane failed to gain sufficient airspeed. The pilot attempted to lift over a berm, stalled, struck a bush, nosed over, and was consumed by fire. A witness reported a disintegrated camshaft bearing in the engine.

Accident Details

The airplane collided with terrain and nosed over during an attempted takeoff. According to the pilot, the airplane did not develop sufficient airspeed during the takeoff roll. At the decision point, the pilot observed a 2-foot-high berm at the end of the runway. Believing he did not have enough room to stop, he continued at full power and "jerked" the airplane into the air.

The airplane then began to sink. The pilot applied full aft elevator, but the airplane stalled about 2 feet above the ground. It touched down again, and the right main landing gear struck a bush and sheared off. The airplane came to rest inverted and was subsequently consumed by a post-impact fire.

Witness Report

A witness, who purchased the engine from the pilot after the accident, reported that the camshaft had a disintegrated bearing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Oct 2001 Stinson 108-3 accident near Rosamond, CA?

During takeoff, the airplane failed to gain sufficient airspeed. The pilot attempted to lift over a berm, stalled, struck a bush, nosed over, and was consumed by fire. A witness reported a disintegrated camshaft bearing in the engine.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Oct 2001 involved a Stinson 108-3, registration N735C, at Rosamond, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to attain sufficient airspeed during the attempted takeoff, which resulted in a stall/mush. The airplane's failure to accelerate was due to a disintegrated bearing on the camshaft. The pilot's failure to make a timely abort decision was a factor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20011024X02140. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.