Crew Inadequate Preflight Preparation Leads to Uncontrolled Descent and Crash Near Galveston Airport (N853SA)

Accident Overview

Shortly after takeoff from Galveston-Scholes Field Airport, the aircraft was in an initial climb at an altitude of 400 feet when it became unstable, lost height, and crashed in a field past the south runway end. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and a post-crash fire.

Occupants and Injuries

A pilot and five passengers were killed, while six other occupants sustained serious injuries.

Probable Cause

The official investigation found that the probable cause of the accident was an uncontrolled descent after takeoff following an inadequate preflight preparation on the part of the crew. The following factors were reported:

• Lack of familiarity with the aircraft
• Misused or failed to use flaps
• Gust locks engaged
• 10 minutes behind schedule
• Passengers not briefed concerning emergency evacuation procedures
• Trim stab on standby position
• No foam available from the fire truck
• The captain had only three hours of flight during the last 90 days