On February 5, 1969, a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor (registration N8181H) operated by Puget Sound Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Port Angeles, United States of America during takeoff. 10 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the accident could not be determined with certainty. However, the following findings were reported: - Premature liftoff for unknown reason, - Elevator trim full nose down for unknown reason, - Weight and balance within the prescribed… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine aircraft crashed shortly after liftoff from Port Angeles-Callam County Airport, killing all 10 occupants. The aircraft was destroyed by impact and post-crash fire.
Accident Overview
A twin-engine aircraft crashed shortly after departing from Port Angeles-Callam County Airport. According to the official investigation, the aircraft encountered difficulties gaining altitude after liftoff, stalled, and subsequently crashed in flames. The impact forces and a post-crash fire destroyed the airplane. All 10 occupants were killed.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined the exact cause of the accident could not be identified with certainty. However, several findings were reported: a premature liftoff occurred for an unknown reason, and the elevator trim was found to be in the full nose-down position for an unknown reason. The aircraft's weight and balance were within prescribed limits. It was not possible to determine which pilot was at the controls at the time of the accident.
Sequence of Events
After liftoff, the aircraft struggled to climb. It then entered a stall and impacted the ground, resulting in a fire that consumed the wreckage. The entire event occurred shortly after departure from the airport.
Probable cause
The exact cause of the accident could not be determined with certainty. However, the following findings were reported: - Premature liftoff for unknown reason, - Elevator trim full nose down for unknown reason, - Weight and balance within the prescribed limits, - It was not possible to know which pilot was at controls at the time of the accident.