On March 23, 1979, a Beechcraft E18 (registration N201GW) operated by Great Western Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Cedar Rapids, United States of America during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control during takeoff due to poor judgment, with contributing factors including failure to maintain directional control, failure to abort takeoff, physical impairment, alcoholic impairment, ice/slush on runway, snow on runway, poor runway conditions,… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff from Cedar Rapids Airport, the crew lost control, causing the aircraft to ground loop, swerve, and crash in flames. Both pilots were killed. Official findings cited loss of control due to poor judgment and multiple contributing factors.
Accident Details
During the takeoff roll at Cedar Rapids Airport, the crew lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft ground looped, swerved, and subsequently crashed in flames. Both pilots on board were killed.
Official Findings
The probable cause of the accident was determined to be a loss of control during takeoff after the crew exercised poor judgment. The investigation reported several contributing factors: