Aircraft crash in wooded area during takeoff

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

An aircraft crashed into a forest after striking trees during a low-altitude turn following a short takeoff roll.

What happened

During the initial stages of flight, the pilot attempted a left turn at a very low altitude shortly after completing a brief takeoff roll. During this maneuver, the aircraft type collided with trees in a forested region. The impact resulted in a post-crash fire that consumed the airframe. There were seven injuries recorded among the occupants, with one individual sustaining serious injuries.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the accident was caused by the pilot performing a premature lift-off without reaching or sustaining the necessary flying speed. Several environmental and operational factors contributed to the event, including the fact that the rotation occurred at the midfield of the runway and the proximity of trees measuring approximately 60 feet in height.

Probable cause

The pilot initiated a rotation before achieving sufficient airspeed for flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1970-09-07 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident near Lakewood, United States of America?

An aircraft crashed into a forest after striking trees during a low-altitude turn following a short takeoff roll.

Were there any fatalities in the 1970-09-07 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1970-09-07 involved a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor, registration N9961Z, operated by Walter Gehlaar, at Lakewood, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot initiated a rotation before achieving sufficient airspeed for flight.

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