Aircraft impact following takeoff at unspecified airport

Casualties unknown • Burlington, WA, US

An aircraft impacted terrain shortly after takeoff during a period where ice and frost were present on the airframe.

What happened

During preflight inspections, the pilot observed ice and frost adhering to the aircraft. After applying glycol, the pilot polished and brushed off the frost. Prior to takeoff, the engines were warmed up while remaining in the traffic pattern to ensure all systems were operational and to clear any remaining ice from the airframe. During the takeoff roll, the pilot utilized less than maximum power. The tail of the aircraft lifted approximately three-quarters of the way down the runway. As the end of the runway approached, additional power was applied, and the aircraft achieved lift-off.

Once a positive rate of climb was established, the landing gear was retracted. Shortly after the gear was raised, the pilot experienced a sensation of the aircraft mushing, similar to a stall. Despite adding more power, the aircraft continued to mush and subsequently impacted terrain with power applied to both engines. The aircraft came to rest in an open field located approximately one-quarter mile from the end of the runway. Following the accident, ice was observed adhering to most of the aircraft.

Probable cause

The aircraft impacted terrain after experiencing a loss of performance similar to a stall following gear retraction, despite the application of power to both engines.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-02-04 Beech E18S accident near Burlington, WA?

An aircraft impacted terrain shortly after takeoff during a period where ice and frost were present on the airframe.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-02-04 involved a Beech E18S, registration N48K, operated by Methow Aviation, at Burlington, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft impacted terrain after experiencing a loss of performance similar to a stall following gear retraction, despite the application of power to both engines.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030207X00180. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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