Aircraft stall and crash following takeoff from Jackson-Reynolds Field

No fatalities • Jackson-Reynolds Field, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

A twin-engine airplane crashed near the end of the runway at Jackson-Reynolds Field after experiencing difficulty gaining altitude during its initial climb.

What happened

During a departure from Jackson-Reynolds Field, a twin engine airplane experienced significant issues maintaining altitude shortly after leaving the ground. As the aircraft attempted to climb, it lost airspeed and entered a stall. This loss of lift caused the plane to descend rapidly, resulting in a crash near the end of the runway. The impact left the aircraft with damage that was considered beyond repair. The pilot sustained one injury during the accident.

Findings

Investigation into the accident revealed that the aircraft's upper surfaces were coated in a layer of frozen snow, measuring between 1/4 inch and 3/8 inches thick. This accumulation of ice and snow on the airframe, along with ice buildup on the windshield, hindered the flight performance. The investigation concluded that the primary reason for the accident was inadequate preflight preparation by the pilot, specifically the failure to clear the aircraft of frozen contaminants before departure. Additionally, it was noted that the pilot did not attempt to abort the takeoff sequence once the difficulties began.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to properly clean the aircraft of ice and snow accumulation prior to takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1974-10-20 Cessna 414 Chancellor accident near Jackson-Reynolds Field, United States of America?

A twin-engine airplane crashed near the end of the runway at Jackson-Reynolds Field after experiencing difficulty gaining altitude during its initial climb.

Were there any fatalities in the 1974-10-20 Cessna 414 Chancellor accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1974-10-20 involved a Cessna 414 Chancellor, registration N414HC, operated by Holloway Construction, at Jackson-Reynolds Field, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot failed to properly clean the aircraft of ice and snow accumulation prior to takeoff.

Loading the flight search…