On January 2, 1975, a Beechcraft E18 (registration N7581) operated by BJ Aero Freight was involved in an aviation accident near Rockford-Greater Rockford, United States of America during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failed to maintain flying speed and failed to use or incorrectly used miscellaneous equipment. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During a night approach to Rockford-Greater Rockford Airport, an airplane banked sharply left, lost height, and crashed in flames. The aircraft was destroyed, killing the passenger and seriously injuring both pilots. The probable cause was loss of flying speed and improper equipment use, with icing as a contributing factor.
Accident Overview
The accident occurred during a nighttime approach to Rockford-Greater Rockford Airport. The airplane entered a sharp left bank and subsequently lost altitude, leading to a collision with terrain. The impact ignited a fire that engulfed the aircraft, resulting in its complete destruction. The passenger on board was killed, while both pilots sustained serious injuries.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official probable cause statement attributed the accident to the failure to maintain flying speed and the failure to use or the incorrect use of miscellaneous equipment. Additionally, the investigation reported several contributing factors: icing conditions that included sleet and freezing rain; the presence of airframe ice; and moderate rime ice encountered during the descent.