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Twin-Engine Airplane Struck Runway During Takeoff (N3259Q)

Paducah, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On September 17, 1968, a Cessna 402 (registration N3259Q) operated by Sun Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Paducah, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper operation of flight controls by the pilot, who failed to obtain/maintain flying speed during takeoff; improper angle of climb allowed propellers to contact runway surface. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

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

A twin-engine airplane struck the runway with propellers shortly after liftoff, veered off, and caught fire. Both pilots seriously injured; passenger slightly injured. Aircraft destroyed.

Accident Overview

Shortly after liftoff, a twin-engine airplane encountered difficulty gaining height. The aircraft nosed down and struck the runway surface with its propellers. It then veered off the runway and came to rest in flames.

Injuries and Damage

Both pilots sustained serious injuries, while the passenger suffered slight injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.

Probable Cause

The probable cause of the accident was an improper operation of flight controls by the pilot, who failed to obtain or maintain flying speed during takeoff. An improper angle of climb allowed the propellers to contact the runway surface.

Controlled flight into terrain

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