On December 19, 1978, a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor (registration N37JR) operated by David Brumfield was involved in an aviation accident near Bordelonville-Brumfield, United States of America during takeoff. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with trees during initial climb after the pilot misjudged distance, speed and altitude. The following contributing factors were reported: - Airport conditions: soft runway, - High obstructions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine aircraft departing a soft runway at Bordelonville-Brumfield Airstrip struck trees and crashed into a farm building. One passenger was seriously injured; five other occupants were killed.
Accident Description
A twin-engine airplane departed from a soft runway at Bordelonville-Brumfield Airstrip. After liftoff, the aircraft encountered difficulties gaining height. It struck trees and subsequently crashed into a farm building. One passenger was seriously injured, and the five other occupants were killed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a collision with trees during initial climb after the pilot misjudged distance, speed, and altitude. Contributing factors reported included airport conditions (soft runway) and high obstructions.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 19 Dec 1978 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident near Bordelonville-Brumfield, United States of America?
A twin-engine aircraft departing a soft runway at Bordelonville-Brumfield Airstrip struck trees and crashed into a farm building. One passenger was seriously injured; five other occupants were killed.
Were there any fatalities in the 19 Dec 1978 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Dec 1978 involved a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor, registration N37JR, operated by David Brumfield, at Bordelonville-Brumfield, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Collision with trees during initial climb after the pilot misjudged distance, speed and altitude. The following contributing factors were reported: - Airport conditions: soft runway, - High obstructions.
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