Accident Summary
A cargo flight crashed shortly after departure from Norfolk Regional Airport, resulting in the death of the sole pilot aboard. The accident occurred after the airplane departed from runway 20 and entered a left bank turn, then descended and impacted terrain. The impact site was located approximately 640 yards southeast of the departure end of runway 20.
Accident Details
The flight arrived at Norfolk Regional Airport about 1907 central daylight time to take on additional cargo before proceeding to Omaha, Nebraska. Airport surveillance video captured the airplane as it departed. After climbing away from the ground, the airplane initiated a left bank turn, descended, and struck the ground. The initial impact point exhibited multiple ground scars, including divots consistent with the main landing gear, empennage, and wings. The airplane appeared to be in a flat, near wings-level attitude at impact.
Wreckage and Impact
The tail section of the airplane and the right main landing gear fractured and remained at the initial impact point. The main wreckage continued another 24 yards east, with the nose coming to rest facing northeast. A postimpact fire ensued and consumed the majority of the wreckage. Examination of the accident site revealed that all major components of the airplane were present.
Examination Findings
Preimpact flight control continuity appeared continuous. The flaps were found in the retracted position, and the landing gear was found extended. Cockpit instrumentation was fire damaged and did not contain useful readings. No non-volatile memory devices were located for download. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was killed in the accident.