No fatalities

2021-07-10: Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III (N66NC) — Private United States of America — Longmont, United States of America

Longmont, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On July 10, 2021, a Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III (registration N66NC) operated by Private United States of America was involved in an aviation accident near Longmont, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of performance for reasons that could not be determined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781190003Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered N66NC
Aircraft registered N66NC. Photo: Josh Beasley from USA / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A twin-engine airplane experienced a loss of performance during takeoff, resulting in a runway excursion and substantial damage. The cause could not be determined.

Accident Summary

The pilot of a twin-engine airplane reported that the takeoff was normal until about halfway down the runway, when the airplane was not accelerating as fast as expected. The pilot attempted to rotate, but the airplane "mushed off the runway." It then settled back onto the runway and exited the departure end, sustaining substantial damage to the wings and fuselage.

Pilot Report

According to the pilot, the "before starting engine" and "starting engine" checklists were performed without issue. An engine runup was completed, and the takeoff roll began. The pilot noted that the airplane's acceleration was insufficient about halfway through the takeoff roll. Despite the rotation attempt, the airplane veered off the runway.

Engine Data

Data from the airplane's engine monitor showed that both engines were operating consistently with each other and at takeoff power at the time of the accident. This suggests no mechanical discrepancy between the engines.

Performance Analysis

The density altitude at the time of the accident was 7,170 ft. According to the airplane's performance charts, the runway length was adequate for takeoff under those conditions. Despite this, the airplane failed to achieve sufficient performance.

Probable Cause

No specific cause could be identified for the loss of performance. The investigation concluded that the loss of performance occurred for reasons that could not be determined.