No fatalities

Aircraft Crashes on Takeoff from Ranch Clearing, Abandoned; Drugs Found Onboard (N700W)

Charlotte, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On March 8, 1982, a Beechcraft E18 (registration N700W) operated by Federated Air Freight was involved in an aviation accident near Charlotte, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: In-flight collision with object during takeoff. The pilot in command was operating a stolen aircraft or without authorization, and the reason for the occurrence was undetermined. 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 archiveUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from a ranch clearing, an aircraft struck a concrete cattle trough, crashed, and was abandoned. Drugs were found on board. Official findings cite unauthorized use and undetermined cause.

Accident Details

An aircraft crashed during takeoff from a clearing on a ranch. During the takeoff roll, the landing gear struck a concrete trough used for watering cattle. The aircraft subsequently crashed and was then abandoned. Drugs were found on board the aircraft.

Investigation Findings

The official probable cause identified that the accident involved an in-flight collision with an object during the takeoff phase of operation. The investigation findings list two specific factors: (1) the pilot in command was operating a stolen aircraft or without authorization, and (2) the reason for the occurrence was undetermined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Mar 1982 Beechcraft E18 accident near Charlotte, United States of America?

During takeoff from a ranch clearing, an aircraft struck a concrete cattle trough, crashed, and was abandoned. Drugs were found on board. Official findings cite unauthorized use and undetermined cause.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Mar 1982 Beechcraft E18 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Mar 1982 involved a Beechcraft E18, registration N700W, operated by Federated Air Freight, at Charlotte, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

In-flight collision with object during takeoff. The pilot in command was operating a stolen aircraft or without authorization, and the reason for the occurrence was undetermined.