No fatalities

Skydiving Flight Stalls After Premature Lift-Off, One Injured (N4709C)

Lakeside, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On February 14, 1971, a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor (registration N4709C) operated by Aerospace Products was involved in an aviation accident near Lakeside, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Premature lift-off on part of the pilot who failed to obtain/maintain flying speed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a local skydiving mission, an aircraft stalled and crashed after lifting off prematurely at 75 mph. All 11 occupants were rescued, with one passenger seriously injured. The aircraft was destroyed.

Incident Summary

A skydiving flight conducting a local mission ended in a crash after the aircraft lifted off prematurely and stalled. The aircraft, carrying 10 skydivers and one pilot, was destroyed in the ensuing fire.

Sequence of Events

Following a roll of approximately 900 feet, the pilot initiated rotation. At a speed of 75 mph, the airplane lifted off, then stalled and struck the ground. Out of control, it veered off the runway and came to rest in flames.

Occupants and Injuries

All 11 occupants were rescued from the wreckage. One passenger sustained serious injuries. The remaining occupants were reported uninjured or with minor injuries not specified.

Damage

The aircraft was destroyed by impact and fire.

Probable Cause

The official findings state the probable cause as premature lift-off on the part of the pilot, who failed to obtain or maintain flying speed.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Feb 1971 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident near Lakeside, United States of America?

During a local skydiving mission, an aircraft stalled and crashed after lifting off prematurely at 75 mph. All 11 occupants were rescued, with one passenger seriously injured. The aircraft was destroyed.

Were there any fatalities in the 14 Feb 1971 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Feb 1971 involved a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor, registration N4709C, operated by Aerospace Products, at Lakeside, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Premature lift-off on part of the pilot who failed to obtain/maintain flying speed.