3 fatalities

Fatal Crash of Ferry Flight at Detroit-Wayne County Airport (N20M)

Detroit-Metropolitan-Wayne County, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On December 15, 1972, a Learjet 23 (registration N20M) operated by Zantop International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Detroit-Metropolitan-Wayne County, United States of America during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the accident could not be determined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane crashed into a fuel storage tank and exploded shortly after takeoff from Detroit-Wayne County Airport, killing both pilots and one person on the ground.

Accident Overview and Immediate Impact The aircraft was operating a ferry flight from Detroit-Wayne County Airport to Lexington when it encountered a fatal accident. The incident occurred just after the airplane lifted off from runway 03R and entered its initial climb phase. During this early stage of flight, the aircraft crashed into a fuel storage tank, which resulted in an explosion. ## Casualties The accident resulted in three fatalities. Both pilots aboard the aircraft were killed. Additionally, one person on the ground also died as a result of the crash and subsequent explosion. ## Investigation Findings The official investigation into the accident was unable to determine the exact cause. The probable cause was officially recorded as undetermined, meaning that the specific factors leading to the crash could not be conclusively identified based on the available evidence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Dec 1972 Learjet 23 accident near Detroit-Metropolitan-Wayne County, United States of America?

An airplane crashed into a fuel storage tank and exploded shortly after takeoff from Detroit-Wayne County Airport, killing both pilots and one person on the ground.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 Dec 1972 Learjet 23 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Dec 1972 involved a Learjet 23, registration N20M, operated by Zantop International Airlines, at Detroit-Metropolitan-Wayne County, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exact cause of the accident could not be determined.