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 specific reason for the aircraft's impact with the fuel tank remains undetermined by investigators. 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.
A ferry flight departing from Detroit-Wayne County Airport crashed into a fuel storage tank shortly after takeoff, resulting in three fatalities.
What happened
During a ferry flight scheduled to travel to Lexington, an aircraft entered its initial climb phase immediately following departure from runway 03R at Detroit-Wayne County Airport. Shortly after leaving the ground, the plane lost control and struck a fuel storage tank located near the airfield. The subsequent impact triggered a large explosion.
There were two fatalities among the flight crew, as both pilots perished in the accident. The crash also resulted in one fatality on the ground.
Findings
Following an investigation into the crash, official authorities stated that the exact cause of the accident could not be determined.
Probable cause
The specific reason for the aircraft's impact with the fuel tank remains undetermined by investigators.