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).
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.
What happened in the 17 Sept 1968 Cessna 402 accident near Paducah, United States of America?
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.
Were there any fatalities in the 17 Sept 1968 Cessna 402 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Sept 1968 involved a Cessna 402, registration N3259Q, operated by Sun Airlines, at Paducah, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
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.
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