On August 20, 2024, a Cessna 550 Citation II (registration N689VP) operated by N689VP was involved in an aviation accident near Odessa-Schlemeyer Field, United States of America during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck powerlines during the initial climb following takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a garage following a collision with a powerline during its initial climb from Ellington Field.
What happened
During a flight departing from Odessa destined for Ellington Field, near Houston, a twin-engine airplane encountered a fatal obstacle during the early stages of its departure. Shortly after departing from runway 16, the aircraft entered its initial climb phase when it struck a powerline situated approximately 270 metres beyond the end of the runway.
Following the impact with the utility lines, the aircraft drifted to the right and descended into a garage located roughly 150 metres from the site of the powerline strike. The impact with the structure resulted in a significant fire that consumed the wreckage. The accident resulted in two fatalities, as both occupants of the aircraft were killed in the crash. The aircraft was completely destroyed by the impact and subsequent fire.
Findings
The aircraft struck a powerline during the initial climb phase of flight.
Collision with utility lines led to a loss of control and subsequent impact with a ground structure.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck powerlines during the initial climb following takeoff.