1 fatality

Single-engine aircraft crash resulting in one fatality (N22JA)

Ruby, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On July 21, 1977, a Britten-Norman Islander (registration N22JA) operated by Harolds Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Ruby, United States of America during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot attempted takeoff from unsuitable terrain while misjudging the aircraft's speed and clearance. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine airplane crashed during takeoff from an area with unsuitable terrain, leading to one death and three injuries.

What happened

During the initial climb phase of flight, a twin engine airplane lost control while attempting to depart from a location characterized by unsuitable terrain. The aircraft's departure from controlled flight resulted in a crash at the takeoff site.

As a result of the impact, there was one fatality among the passengers. Additionally, the accident left three injured occupants requiring medical attention.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor involved the pilot's decision to attempt takeoff from terrain that was not appropriate for such maneuvers. Furthermore, the crew miscalculated both the necessary airspeed and the available clearance required to safely clear the surrounding obstacles.

Probable cause

The pilot attempted takeoff from unsuitable terrain while misjudging the aircraft's speed and clearance.