On August 20, 1977, a Beechcraft G18S (registration N273V) operated by William Mitchell was involved in an aviation accident near Aero Oasis, United States of America during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Stall during climb due to inadequate preflight preparation on part of the pilot. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
After liftoff, the aircraft failed to gain height, stalled, and crashed in flames. The pilot died; all 10 skydivers escaped, one injured. Official cause: stall due to inadequate preflight preparation.
Incident
At liftoff, the airplane encountered difficulties gaining height. It stalled and subsequently crashed in flames. All 10 skydivers on board escaped from the aircraft; one of them sustained injuries. The pilot was killed.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a stall during climb resulting from inadequate preflight preparation by the pilot.
Contributing Factors
The following contributing factors were reported:
Lack of familiarity with the aircraft
Failure to abort the takeoff
Failure to maintain flying speed
Improperly loaded aircraft and center of gravity
Inadequate maintenance and inspection
Failure of the ignition system (spark plugs)
Improper fuel grade
Aircraft loaded 953 pounds over maximum gross weight
Center of gravity approximately 2.5 inches aft of the aft limit
What happened in the 20 Aug 1977 Beechcraft G18S accident near Aero Oasis, United States of America?
After liftoff, the aircraft failed to gain height, stalled, and crashed in flames. The pilot died; all 10 skydivers escaped, one injured. Official cause: stall due to inadequate preflight preparation.
Were there any fatalities in the 20 Aug 1977 Beechcraft G18S accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Aug 1977 involved a Beechcraft G18S, registration N273V, operated by William Mitchell, at Aero Oasis, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Stall during climb due to inadequate preflight preparation on part of the pilot.
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