Accident Overview
On March 9, 2025, at approximately 1530 eastern daylight time, a Beech A36TC, registration N347M, was substantially damaged in an accident near Lititz, Pennsylvania. The airplane was operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The pilot and one passenger sustained serious injuries, while the three other passengers received minor injuries.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, during takeoff he heard a loud “pop” and was uncertain of its origin. He responded by reducing engine power, pulling the throttle back, then realized the cabin door had opened. He believed he subsequently pushed the throttle forward but was not sure. The pilot observed that the airplane’s airspeed was not increasing and immediately began looking for a landing site. He reported being unable to recall any events after that point.
A passenger seated in the middle row behind the pilot stated that as soon as the airplane left the ground, the front door opened. The pilot contacted the air traffic control tower and requested to return to the airport. The right-front-seat passenger held the door closed. The airplane then began a left turn and started “shaking” before it crashed.
Evidence from Security Camera
A security camera located at an apartment complex across the street from the airport captured the airplane departing the runway and turning left. As the airplane lost altitude in the turn, the wings were seen rocking back and forth, and the tail was low. The airplane impacted the ground and continued into a parking lot, striking several cars. A postcrash fire consumed most of the airplane, including the cabin door.
Weight and Balance Issues
Review of weight and balance information revealed that the airplane was loaded about 500 lbs above maximum gross takeoff weight.