1 fatality

Twin-Engine Aircraft Crashes After Night Takeoff in Dodge City (N311D)

Dodge City, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On March 3, 1975, a Beechcraft E18 (registration N311D) operated by SMB Stage Line (Sedalia-Marshall-Boonville Stage Line) was involved in an aviation accident near Dodge City, United States of America during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Uncontrolled descent for undetermined reason. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine airplane crashed in a field after takeoff from Dodge City Airport, disintegrating on impact and catching fire. The sole pilot was killed.

Accident Overview

A twin-engine airplane departed from Dodge City Airport and was climbing during nighttime conditions. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft went out of control and crashed in a field, resulting in a large explosion. The airplane disintegrated upon impact and was completely destroyed by a post-crash fire. The pilot, the only person on board, was killed.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined that the accident involved an uncontrolled descent for an undetermined reason. The report listed the following contributing conditions: low ceiling, fog, and snow. Additionally, there was a ground fire and general disintegration of the aircraft.

Probable cause

Uncontrolled descent for undetermined reason.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Mar 1975 Beechcraft E18 accident near Dodge City, United States of America?

A twin-engine airplane crashed in a field after takeoff from Dodge City Airport, disintegrating on impact and catching fire. The sole pilot was killed.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Mar 1975 Beechcraft E18 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Mar 1975 involved a Beechcraft E18, registration N311D, operated by SMB Stage Line (Sedalia-Marshall-Boonville Stage Line), at Dodge City, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Uncontrolled descent for undetermined reason.