On September 23, 1979, a Beechcraft D18 (registration N516PA) operated by Lowery Aircraft Parts was involved in an aviation accident near North Perry, United States of America during takeoff. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Uncontrolled collision with ground during initial climb due to inadequate preflight preparation on part of the crew. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Shortly after takeoff from North Perry Airport, an aircraft lost altitude during initial climb and crashed in flames near the runway end. The post-crash fire destroyed the aircraft, killing all three occupants. The probable cause was an uncontrolled collision with ground due to inadequate preflight preparation.
Accident Details
Shortly after takeoff from North Perry Airport, the aircraft was in its initial climb when it lost altitude and crashed in flames near the runway end. The impact and subsequent post-crash fire destroyed the aircraft. All three occupants were killed.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be an uncontrolled collision with the ground during initial climb due to inadequate preflight preparation on the part of the crew.
Contributing Factors
The following contributing factors were reported:
Improperly loaded aircraft
Estimated 150 pounds over maximum gross weight at takeoff
Center of gravity approximately 3 inches aft of the rear limit at takeoff
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 23 Sept 1979 Beechcraft D18 accident near North Perry, United States of America?
Shortly after takeoff from North Perry Airport, an aircraft lost altitude during initial climb and crashed in flames near the runway end. The post-crash fire destroyed the aircraft, killing all three occupants. The probable cause was an uncontrolled collision with ground due to inadequate preflight preparation.
Were there any fatalities in the 23 Sept 1979 Beechcraft D18 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Sept 1979 involved a Beechcraft D18, registration N516PA, operated by Lowery Aircraft Parts, at North Perry, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Uncontrolled collision with ground during initial climb due to inadequate preflight preparation on part of the crew. Contributing factors: improperly loaded aircraft; estimated 150 lbs over max gross weight; approximately 3 inches aft of rear CofG limit at takeoff.
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