On April 28, 1982, a Cessna 411 (registration N411HN) operated by Harry Noe was involved in an aviation accident near Houston-William P. Hobby, United States of America during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Occurrence #1: in flight collision with object. Findings: (c) proper climb rate - not maintained - pilot in command; (f) object - electrical tower; (c) visual lookout - inadequate - pilot in command; (c) diverted attention - pilot in command. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A pilot performing a join-up departure from runway 17 struck a radio tower/antenna at low altitude after a left turn, resulting in a crash that killed the sole occupant.
Accident Overview
The accident involved an aircraft operating as the second of a two-ship flight. The lead aircraft had received takeoff clearance and was to proceed to a visual checkpoint northwest of the airport to await the join-up of the second aircraft.
Departure and Maneuver
Witnesses observed the aircraft depart runway 17 and remain at low altitude. The aircraft then completed a left turn, passing over the witnesses at low altitude. Just prior to the collision, the pilot was seen looking from side to side.
Collision and Crash
The aircraft collided with a radio tower/antenna during the initial climb phase of takeoff. The crash resulted in fatal injuries to the pilot, who was the sole occupant.
Official Findings
The investigation identified the following factors related to the in-flight collision with an object (electrical tower):
Proper climb rate was not maintained.
Visual lookout was inadequate.
The pilot's attention was diverted.
Probable cause
Occurrence #1: in flight collision with object. Findings: (c) proper climb rate - not maintained - pilot in command; (f) object - electrical tower; (c) visual lookout - inadequate - pilot in command; (c) diverted attention - pilot in command.