On June 8, 1993, a Beechcraft E18 (registration N51FG) operated by Active Aero Charter was involved in an aviation accident near Detroit-Willow Run (Ypsilanti), United States of America during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot-in-command's inadequate preflight preparation, false indication (on/off) of attitude indicator, and attitude indicator switched off. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
On a pilot's first revenue solo flight for a new company, the aircraft collided with terrain just after takeoff in fog and low ceilings. Investigation found the primary attitude indicator had a malfunctioning on/off flag and was switched off. No engine or airframe anomalies were detected. The pilot was killed.
Accident Details
The pilot was conducting his initial revenue and solo flight for this company, in this type of airplane. Weather conditions at the time of takeoff included fog and low ceilings. The airplane collided with terrain on the airport shortly after takeoff. The pilot, sole occupant, was killed.
Investigation Findings
A subsequent examination of the wreckage revealed no anomalies with the engines or airframe. The primary attitude indicator, located in the left panel, was electrically operated via an independent switch. This aircraft was the only such airplane operated by the company with this independent switch configuration for the attitude indicator.
During inspection, the attitude indicator was found to have a malfunctioning on/off flag that gave an indication of being operative regardless of power to the unit. No rotational damage was noted within the gyro housing.
Probable cause
The pilot-in-command's inadequate preflight preparation, false indication (on/off) of attitude indicator, and attitude indicator switched off. Factors were fog, low ceiling, the pilot-in-command's improper use of the attitude indicator, and his lack of total experience in the type of airplane.