No fatalities

Pilot Reports Veer Off Runway During Flooded Short Field Takeoff (N44MA)

Woleai, Federated States of MicronesiaTakeoff (climb)

On July 12, 2024, a Beechcraft 80 Queen Air (registration N44MA) operated by Pacific Mission Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Woleai, Federated States of Micronesia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area, resulting in a loss of directional control. Contributing to the accident was a flooded runway. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that during a short field takeoff on a flooded runway, the right landing gear wheel entered a deep puddle, causing the airplane to veer right and exit into tall grass. No injuries occurred.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during a short field takeoff on a runway flooded by heavy rain, the airplane's right landing gear wheel entered a deep puddle of water. This caused the airplane to veer to the right. The pilot attempted to lift the airplane into ground effect to regain directional control, but the airplane was traveling too slow. Subsequently, the airplane exited the right side of the runway into tall grass and vegetation.

Damage and Occupants

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wing spar and fuselage, and was damaged beyond repair. All 10 occupants escaped uninjured.

Mechanical Report

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause is the pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area, resulting in a loss of directional control. Contributing to the accident was a flooded runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Jul 2024 Beechcraft 80 Queen Air accident near Woleai, Federated States of Micronesia?

A pilot reported that during a short field takeoff on a flooded runway, the right landing gear wheel entered a deep puddle, causing the airplane to veer right and exit into tall grass. No injuries occurred.

Were there any fatalities in the 12 Jul 2024 Beechcraft 80 Queen Air accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Jul 2024 involved a Beechcraft 80 Queen Air, registration N44MA, operated by Pacific Mission Aviation, at Woleai, Federated States of Micronesia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area, resulting in a loss of directional control. Contributing to the accident was a flooded runway.