On September 9, 1980, a Beechcraft E18 (registration N43L) operated by International Aero Sales was involved in an aviation accident near Gainesville, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Ground loop and subsequent collision with parked aircraft after the pilot failed to maintain directional control. Contributing factors: Inadequate preflight preparation, Improperly loaded aircraft. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During takeoff roll, a twin-engine airplane lost control, veered off the runway, and collided with parked aircraft, bursting into flames. Both occupants were seriously injured and the aircraft destroyed. Three other aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Incident Summary
During the takeoff roll, a twin-engine airplane went out of control. It veered off the runway and eventually collided with several parked aircraft on the apron. The impact caused the airplane to burst into flames.
Aircraft and Occupants
The twin-engine airplane was destroyed in the accident. Both occupants on board were seriously injured.
Damage to Other Aircraft
Three other aircraft were substantially damaged in the ground accident. These included a Grumman G-21 Goose registered N33S, a Cessna 206 registered N9423G, and a Beechcraft registered N9473D.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a ground loop and subsequent collision with parked aircraft after the pilot failed to maintain directional control. The following contributing factors were reported: inadequate preflight preparation and improperly loaded aircraft.