No fatalities

27 Jun 2020: Beech 23 C23 — Davenport, IA

Davenport, IA, United States

On 27 Jun 2020, a Beech 23 C23 was involved in an aviation accident near Davenport, IA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to properly configure the airplane for takeoff, which resulted in the exceedance of the airplane's critical angle of attack, an aerodynamic stall, and subsequent impact with terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff climb, the airplane's right wing dropped; the pilot's nose-over response led to the wing striking the runway and subsequent impact with terrain, causing substantial fuselage damage. Postaccident examination found the elevator trim set for landing.

Accident Overview

During the takeoff climb, the pilot observed the airplane's right wing drop. In response, the pilot pushed the airplane's nose over. The wing subsequently struck the runway, and the airplane impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage.

Postaccident Examination

Federal Aviation Administration aviation safety inspectors conducted a postaccident examination of the airframe. They found that the airplane's elevator trim was configured in a nose-up setting, which is typically used for a landing profile.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe and engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Damage

The accident resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage. No further details regarding other damage were provided in the source.

Investigation Status

The investigation is based on the official source. No probable cause has been stated.

Contributing factors

PilotInadequate inspectionCapability exceeded