No fatalities

Aircraft Stalls and Crashes After Takeoff from Opa Locka Airport (N3721)

Miami-Opa Locka, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On January 20, 1973, a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor (registration N3721) operated by Seaboard International was involved in an aviation accident near Miami-Opa Locka, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Inadequate preflight preparation on the part of the pilot, who failed to follow the approved procedures and to 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

Shortly after takeoff from Opa Locka Airport, the airplane stalled and crashed during initial climb. Both occupants sustained serious injuries and the aircraft was destroyed.

Overview

The accident occurred shortly after takeoff from Opa Locka Airport. During the initial climb phase, the airplane stalled and subsequently crashed. Both occupants were seriously injured, and the aircraft was destroyed.

Sequence of Events

According to the official investigation, the airplane stalled while in initial climb following takeoff from Opa Locka Airport. The crash resulted in serious injuries to both occupants and the complete destruction of the aircraft.

Probable Cause

The probable cause of the accident was inadequate preflight preparation on the part of the pilot, who failed to follow approved procedures and to maintain flying speed.

Reported Factors

The investigation reported the following factors: the aircraft was improperly loaded, foggy conditions were present at the time of the accident, and the aircraft was overloaded by approximately 441 pounds.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jan 1973 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident near Miami-Opa Locka, United States of America?

Shortly after takeoff from Opa Locka Airport, the airplane stalled and crashed during initial climb. Both occupants sustained serious injuries and the aircraft was destroyed.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Jan 1973 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jan 1973 involved a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor, registration N3721, operated by Seaboard International, at Miami-Opa Locka, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Inadequate preflight preparation on the part of the pilot, who failed to follow the approved procedures and to maintain flying speed.