Aircraft accident at Alamosa Airport involving premature landing gear retraction

No fatalities • Alamosa, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed during its takeoff roll at Alamosa Airport after the pilot retracted the landing gear too early, resulting in a post-crash fire.

What happened

While performing a takeoff roll at Alamosa Airport, an incident occurred involving the premature retraction of the landing gear. During the initial phase of the flight, the pilot raised the gear before the aircraft had sufficiently gained altitude or speed. This action led to the aircraft crashing onto the runway.

Following the impact, a fire brokedt out, which resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There were six people on board at the time of the accident. All six occupants sustained minor injuries, but no fatalities were reported during the event.

Findings

Official investigations into the accident concluded that the primary factor was the pilot's decision to retract the landing gear prematurely. The sequence of events was driven by an improper level-off procedure and the premature retraction of the landing gear.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the pilot incorrectly performing a level-off and retracting the landing gear before it was safe to do so during the takeoff roll.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1966-09-02 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident near Alamosa, United States of America?

An aircraft crashed during its takeoff roll at Alamosa Airport after the pilot retracted the landing gear too early, resulting in a post-crash fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 1966-09-02 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1966-09-02 involved a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor, registration N111Z, operated by United States Forest Service - USFS, at Alamosa, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the pilot incorrectly performing a level-off and retracting the landing gear before it was safe to do so during the takeoff roll.

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