Casualties unknown

2005-08-21: Beech A36 (N7226M) — Healdsburg, CA

Healdsburg, CA, US

On August 21, 2005, a Beech A36 (registration N7226M) was involved in an aviation accident near Healdsburg, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain lateral aircraft control during takeoff. 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 rotated at 75 knots, felt roll and yaw after liftoff, corrected with rudder and forward yoke, then retracted gear. Left wing tip damage was discovered during climb.

Incident Overview

During takeoff, the left wing of the aircraft dragged on the ground. The pilot rotated at 75 knots. Shortly after liftoff, the pilot felt the airplane roll and yaw, which he interpreted as wind shear. In response, the pilot initiated corrective control inputs using the rudder, neutral aileron, and forward yoke pressure. The airplane's attitude and flight path returned to normal, and the pilot retracted the landing gear.

Pilot Actions

The pilot did not feel or hear the impact of the left wing tip during the takeoff or initial climb. He was surprised to see the damage to the left wing during the climb phase of the flight. Upon discovering the damage, the pilot diverted to a nearby airport where he executed an emergency landing. The pilot stated that the airplane and engine had no mechanical failures or malfunctions during the flight.

Aftermath

The aircraft sustained damage to the left wing tip. No other issues were reported. The pilot successfully landed the aircraft at the alternate airport without further incident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050916X01486. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.