On January 14, 2017, a BEECH B200 UNDESIGNAT operated by Optimal Aviation Services was involved in an aviation accident near Coalinga, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 13 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff roll on a narrow runway, the left main landing gear dropped off the runway into soft mud after the pilot advanced throttles. The airplane veered left, nose gear collapsed, and substantial damage occurred.
Incident Details
A pilot reported that during the takeoff roll on a narrow runway at an indicated airspeed of about 70 to 80 knots, he noticed the engines were not producing full power. In response, the pilot advanced the throttles "a little further." Immediately after this throttle adjustment, the left main landing gear dropped off the left side of the runway into soft mud. The airplane then veered off the runway to the left, causing the nose gear to collapse. The aircraft came to a stop in the mud.
Damage Assessment
The fuselage and engine firewalls sustained substantial damage as a result of the event.
Pilot Report
The pilot did not report any preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Causes
PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained