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4 fatalities

Engine Failure After Liftoff Leads to Stall and Crash; Four Killed (N21DD)

Sumter, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On September 17, 1972, a Beechcraft E18 (registration N21DD) operated by Robert H. Ford was involved in an aviation accident near Sumter, United States of America during takeoff. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Powerplant failure for undetermined reason. The following factors were reported: - The pilot-in-command failed to maintain flying speed, - Improper emergency procedures, - The crew failed to retract the landing gear, - Improperly loaded aircraft, - The… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

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

Shortly after takeoff, an aircraft experienced an engine failure during initial climb. The crew lost control, resulting in a stall and crash with flames. All four occupants were killed. Investigators determined the probable cause was a powerplant failure for undetermined reasons, with contributing factors including improper loading and crew actions.

Accident Details

Shortly after becoming airborne during the initial climb, one of the aircraft's engines failed. The crew lost control of the aircraft, which subsequently stalled and crashed in flames. All four occupants were killed.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be a powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. The following factors were reported:

  • The pilot-in-command failed to maintain flying speed.
  • Improper emergency procedures were executed.
  • The crew failed to retract the landing gear.
  • The aircraft was improperly loaded.
  • The aircraft was approximately 300 pounds over its gross weight.
Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Sept 1972 Beechcraft E18 accident near Sumter, United States of America?

Shortly after takeoff, an aircraft experienced an engine failure during initial climb. The crew lost control, resulting in a stall and crash with flames. All four occupants were killed. Investigators determined the probable cause was a powerplant failure for undetermined reasons, with contributing factors including…

Were there any fatalities in the 17 Sept 1972 Beechcraft E18 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Sept 1972 involved a Beechcraft E18, registration N21DD, operated by Robert H. Ford, at Sumter, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Powerplant failure for undetermined reason. The following factors were reported: - The pilot-in-command failed to maintain flying speed, - Improper emergency procedures, - The crew failed to retract the landing gear, - Improperly loaded aircraft, - The aircraft was approximately 300 pounds over gross weight.

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