Casualties unknown

Airplane sustains substantial damage after settling during soft field takeoff (N3329C)

Wheatland, WY, US

On April 8, 2007, a Beech F-35 (registration N3329C) was involved in an aviation accident near Wheatland, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the takeoff phase, which resulted in the airplane settling back onto the ground. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

The pilot attempted a soft field takeoff from an unpaved surface but the aircraft settled back onto the ground shortly after becoming airborne, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.

What happened

The pilot reported attempting to depart from an unimproved dirt field. To manage the surface conditions, the pilot utilized recommended soft field takeoff procedures. The airplane became airborne but subsequently settled back to the ground. This event resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft.

The investigation

A physical examination of the airplane systems was conducted following the incident. The inspection revealed no anomalies within the aircraft's mechanical or operational systems that would have contributed to the accident.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the takeoff phase, which resulted in the airplane settling back onto the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070502X00502. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.