No fatalities

Engine Failure After Takeoff Leads to Crash Near Houston Hobby Airport (N999CR)

Houston-William P. Hobby, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On March 18, 1981, a Beechcraft 100 King Air (registration N999CR) operated by Crutcher Resources Corporation was involved in an aviation accident near Houston-William P. Hobby, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors: the pilot-in-command failed to follow approved procedures, improper emergency procedures, forced landing off airport on land, pilot continued right turn into dead engine until just before… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

Initial climb from Houston-William P. Hobby Airport resulted in right engine failure. During a right turn, the aircraft lost height and crashed in a field. Both occupants sustained slight injuries; the aircraft was destroyed.

Accident Overview

A twin-engine aircraft experienced a right engine failure shortly after departing from Houston-William P. Hobby Airport. The failure occurred during the initial climb phase, prompting the crew to initiate a right turn. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft lost altitude and came to rest in a field. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.

Occupant Status

Both occupants were slightly injured in the accident. No other injuries were reported.

Sequence of Events

After takeoff from Houston-William P. Hobby Airport, while climbing, the right engine failed. The crew executed a right turn. During the turn, the aircraft descended and ultimately crashed in a field. The right turn was continued into the dead engine until just before touchdown, and the wings were never leveled.

Probable Cause and Contributing Factors

Official findings determined the probable cause to be a powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors included: the pilot-in-command failed to follow approved procedures, improper emergency procedures, a forced landing off airport on land, and the pilot continuing the right turn into the dead engine until just before touchdown with the wings never leveled.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Mar 1981 Beechcraft 100 King Air accident near Houston-William P. Hobby, United States of America?

Initial climb from Houston-William P. Hobby Airport resulted in right engine failure. During a right turn, the aircraft lost height and crashed in a field. Both occupants sustained slight injuries; the aircraft was destroyed.

Were there any fatalities in the 18 Mar 1981 Beechcraft 100 King Air accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Mar 1981 involved a Beechcraft 100 King Air, registration N999CR, operated by Crutcher Resources Corporation, at Houston-William P. Hobby, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors: the pilot-in-command failed to follow approved procedures, improper emergency procedures, forced landing off airport on land, pilot continued right turn into dead engine until just before touchdown, wings never leveled.