1978-01-18: De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter — Frontier Airlines — Pueblo, United States of America

3 fatalities • Pueblo, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

Probable cause

Stall during initial climb after the crew failed to maintain flying speed. The following contributing factors were reported: - Failed to follow approved procedures, - Misused or failed to use flaps, - Flaps found in fully extended 30° position, - Flap setting for normal takeoff is 10°.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The crew was engaged in a local training flight at Pueblo-Memorial Airport. Following an approach to runway 27, the crew completed a circuit then a second approach to runway 17. After the airplane made a complete stop, the crew initiated a takeoff from runway 17. During initial climb, at a height of 100-150 feet, the airplane nosed over, stall and crashed near the runway end. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact and all three occupants were killed.

Probable cause (official findings): Stall during initial climb after the crew failed to maintain flying speed. The following contributing factors were reported: - Failed to follow approved procedures, - Misused or failed to use flaps, - Flaps found in fully extended 30° position, - Flap setting for normal takeoff is 10°.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1978-01-18 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Pueblo, United States of America?

The crew was engaged in a local training flight at Pueblo-Memorial Airport. Following an approach to runway 27, the crew completed a circuit then a second approach to runway 17. After the airplane made a complete stop, the crew initiated a takeoff from runway 17. During initial climb, at a height of 100-150 feet, the…

Were there any fatalities in the 1978-01-18 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1978-01-18 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration N982FL, operated by Frontier Airlines, at Pueblo, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Stall during initial climb after the crew failed to maintain flying speed. The following contributing factors were reported: - Failed to follow approved procedures, - Misused or failed to use flaps, - Flaps found in fully extended 30° position, - Flap setting for normal takeoff is 10°.

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