Casualties unknown

2003-06-13: Boeing A75N1(PT17) (N55175) — Worden L. Mccalum — Sutton, WV

Sutton, WV, US

On June 13, 2003, a Boeing A75N1(PT17) (registration N55175) operated by Worden L. Mccalum was involved in an aviation accident near Sutton, WV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to abort the takeoff in a timely manner. Factors included the high density altitude conditions, and the pilot's lack of familiarity with the airplane's high density altitude performance characteristics. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot concerned about field elevation and weight experienced slower acceleration and a longer takeoff roll. After bouncing twice, the airplane climbed slowly in ground effect, then struck trees during a turn.

Accident Details

Before the flight, the pilot reported being concerned about the field elevation, airplane weight, heat, and humidity. During the takeoff roll, the airplane had slower acceleration and a longer takeoff roll than normal. The pilot considered aborting the takeoff twice but was concerned that there was not enough available runway to land, and felt that he would be able to out climb the terrain located at the end of the runway.

Pilot's Actions

After bouncing twice on the runway, the airplane began to climb in ground effect at about 100 feet per minute. When the pilot realized that he would not clear the terrain, he lowered the nose in an attempt to gain airspeed. He located an area of lower terrain, made a shallow right turn, and attempted to fly through the area.

Outcome

The airplane sank into the trees and rolled. The pilot stated that the engine sounded as if it was producing full power, and that he was unfamiliar with the airplane's high density altitude performance capabilities.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030819X01351. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.