On February 1, 1969, a Beechcraft D18 (registration N44634) operated by Orion Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Kansas City, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Stall during initial climb caused by an inadequate preflight preparation on part of the flying crew. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A mail flight crashed after a night takeoff from Kansas City Airport after stalling due to inadequate preflight preparation, with contributing factors including airframe ice and over gross weight. Both pilots were seriously injured.
Accident Overview
A mail flight encountered difficulties after a night takeoff from Kansas City Airport. The airplane stalled and crashed near the runway end, resulting in serious injuries to both pilots. The aircraft was destroyed by a post-crash fire.
Investigation Findings
The probable cause of the accident was determined to be a stall during initial climb, caused by inadequate preflight preparation on the part of the flying crew. Several contributing factors were reported:
Airframe ice
Icing conditions, including sleet and freezing rain
Improperly loaded aircraft—weight and center of gravity
Frost on wings
Aircraft over gross takeoff weight
The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, engine count, operator, or date. The time of day was night, and the flight was a mail service.