No fatalities

1982-06-11: Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III (G-BFEM) — Brush Electrical Machines — Lausanne-Blécherette, Switzerland

Lausanne-Blécherette, SwitzerlandTakeoff (climb)

On June 11, 1982, a Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III (registration G-BFEM) operated by Brush Electrical Machines was involved in an aviation accident near Lausanne-Blécherette, Switzerland during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft was unable to reach the necessary takeoff speed for reasons that could not be determined with certainty. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781221434Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff on a grassy runway, a twin-engine aircraft failed to reach required speed, overran, crossed a motorway, and came to rest against a dirt bank before bursting into flames. All four occupants were injured, one seriously.

Accident Details

On takeoff roll from runway 01, a grassy strip measuring 805 meters in length, a twin-engine aircraft encountered serious difficulty in attaining the necessary speed of 85 knots. The aircraft overran the runway, continued through a cornfield, crossed a motorway, and ultimately came to rest against a dirt bank, where it burst into flames. The aircraft was totally destroyed by the post-crash fire.

Injuries and Damage

All four occupants sustained injuries; the pilot was seriously injured. The aircraft was completely destroyed by fire following the impact.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined that the aircraft was unable to reach the required takeoff speed for reasons that could not be established with certainty. Investigators noted that braking traces from both main landing gear wheels were found on the runway and in the cornfield, suggesting the possibility that the parking brake was engaged during the takeoff procedure. The pilot realized too late that a takeoff was not possible. Additionally, relatively soft ground and a heavy aircraft weight were considered contributing factors.

Probable cause

The aircraft was unable to reach the necessary takeoff speed for reasons that could not be determined with certainty. It is possible that the parking brake was still ON during the takeoff procedure as braking traces from both main gears were found on the runway and the cornfield as well. The pilot realized too late he could not takeoff, and a relative soft ground and heavy aircraft were considered as contributing factors.