No fatalities

Landing Accident at Private Airstrip Due to Misjudged Airspeed

Bivalve, MD, United States

On August 4, 2016, a BEECH F33 A was involved in an aviation accident near Bivalve, MD. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged the approach airspeed. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A commercial pilot misjudged approach airspeed during landing, resulting in a runway excursion and impact with a ditch, causing landing gear collapse and substantial wing damage.

Incident Overview

A commercial pilot reported a landing accident on his private airstrip, stating that he "misjudged the approach airspeed." After touchdown, the airplane was unable to stop before the end of the runway. It exited the runway and struck a ditch containing small trees and bushes.

Damage and Consequences

The impact caused the nose gear and left main landing gear to collapse, resulting in the airplane nosing down. Subsequently, the left wing and left aileron sustained substantial damage.

Pilot Report

The pilot further reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable cause

The pilot misjudged the approach airspeed.

Contributing factors

Causes

Incorrect use/operationPilot

Other contributing factors

Contributed to outcome

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Aug 2016 BEECH F33 A accident near Bivalve, MD?

A commercial pilot misjudged approach airspeed during landing, resulting in a runway excursion and impact with a ditch, causing landing gear collapse and substantial wing damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Aug 2016 BEECH F33 A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Aug 2016 involved a BEECH F33 A, at Bivalve, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot misjudged the approach airspeed.