On May 31, 1973, a Beechcraft E18 (registration N73JB) operated by SMB Stage Line (Sedalia-Marshall-Boonville Stage Line) was involved in an aviation accident near Longview, United States of America during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with trees on final approach after the pilot misjudged distance and altitude. 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.
During a night approach in marginal weather, a twin-engine airplane struck trees 1.75 miles short of the runway and crashed in flames. The pilot was killed. Official findings cited misjudgment of distance and altitude, with contributing factors including high obstructions and pilot fatigue.
Accident Details
On final approach to Longview Airport at night, the pilot of a twin-engine airplane encountered marginal weather conditions with limited visibility. The aircraft struck trees while on approach and crashed in flames approximately 1.75 miles short of the runway threshold. The airplane was destroyed, and the pilot was killed. At the time of the accident, the landing lights were on and the landing gear was extended.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a collision with trees on final approach after the pilot misjudged distance and altitude. The following factors were reported: high obstructions, pilot fatigue, and the aircraft striking trees at an altitude of 32 feet above ground level approximately 1.75 miles from the airport.