No fatalities

Aircraft Veers Left After Landing, Runs into Ditch at Crystal River Airport (N3659Q)

Crystal River, FL, US

On May 8, 2004, a Beech A23A (registration N3659Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Crystal River, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilots failure to maintain directional control during the landing rollout, which resulted in the airplane departing the runway and incurring damage. 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

A pilot reported a normal approach and landing at Crystal River Airport, but the airplane veered left after touchdown, departed the runway, and came to rest in a ditch, sustaining structural damage.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that the approach, landing flare, and touchdown at Crystal River Airport were normal. However, approximately 50 feet after initial touchdown, the airplane suddenly veered to the left. The aircraft departed the left side of the runway, crossed a grass median and a taxiway, and came to rest in a ditch. The incident resulted in structural damage to the aircraft.

FAA Inspector Findings

An FAA inspector who responded to the scene observed tire skid marks extending 3,000 feet down the runway, located in the vicinity of a taxiway entrance/exit. An examination of the accident aircraft's brake system revealed no anomalies.

Pilot Statement

The pilot did not specify any mechanical issues or other factors contributing to the veer. The flight controls and systems were not reported as abnormal prior to the veer.

Location and Conditions

The accident occurred at Crystal River Airport. No further details about weather, time of day, or air traffic control involvement were provided.

Investigation Status

The investigation is based on the pilot's report and the FAA inspector's observations. No probable cause has been determined based on the available information.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 May 2004 Beech A23A accident near Crystal River, FL?

A pilot reported a normal approach and landing at Crystal River Airport, but the airplane veered left after touchdown, departed the runway, and came to rest in a ditch, sustaining structural damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 May 2004 Beech A23A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 May 2004 involved a Beech A23A, registration N3659Q, at Crystal River, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilots failure to maintain directional control during the landing rollout, which resulted in the airplane departing the runway and incurring damage.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040512X00595. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.