Accident Overview
A Beechcraft Bonanza aircraft collided with terrain shortly after takeoff, resulting in fatal injuries to the pilot and serious injuries to all six passengers. The accident occurred during the initial climb phase.
Flight Sequence
According to a statement from the right front seat passenger, who holds a private pilot certificate, the pilot did not extend the wing flaps for takeoff. The aircraft lifted off at approximately 85 knots and immediately began to buffet. Subsequently, the airplane impacted a highway in a nose-high, left-wing-low attitude and then struck a rock face on a mountain.
Performance Data
The aircraft operating manual specifies that the rate-of-climb/maximum climb chart indicates a required climb speed of 103 knots under the conditions present (wing flaps up at a density altitude of 6,000 feet). The recommended flaps-up lift-off speed is stated as 95 knots. The actual lift-off speed of 85 knots was below this value.
Probable Cause
Official findings list two occurrences. Occurrence #1: loss of control while in flight during the takeoff-initial climb phase. Contributing factors: (1) The pilot did not attain the proper airspeed (Vlof); (2) The pilot prematurely lifted off; (3) The pilot inadvertently stalled the aircraft; (4) A weather condition of high density altitude was present. Occurrence #2: in-flight collision with terrain during the same phase. A contributing factor was the mountainous/hilly terrain.
Conclusion
The accident sequence involved a stall precipitated by an early rotation at insufficient speed without flaps, compounded by high density altitude, leading to loss of control and impact with rising terrain.