No fatalities

Loss of Control on Takeoff Leads to Crash, Three Occupants Sustain Minor Injuries (N100EP)

Amarillo-Rick Husband, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On October 5, 1977, a Learjet 25 (registration N100EP) operated by Private United States of America was involved in an aviation accident near Amarillo-Rick Husband, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with ground during takeoff due to inadequate supervision of flight. The following contributing factors were reported: - Simulated conditions, - Pilot-in-command non CFI, - Pulled engine at Vr, - Copilot with no Learjet dual instruction made takeoff. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff roll, control was lost just before liftoff. The aircraft veered off the runway and crashed in flames. All three occupants escaped with minor injuries. The aircraft was destroyed. Official findings cite inadequate supervision of flight as probable cause.

Incident Overview

On an unspecified date, during the takeoff roll of a Learjet, control was lost just prior to liftoff. The airplane veered off the runway and crashed, resulting in a fire. All three occupants escaped the wreckage with minor injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.

Sequence of Events

The accident sequence began as the aircraft accelerated for takeoff. Moments before the airplane would have become airborne, control was lost. The Learjet departed the runway surface and impacted the ground, erupting in flames. The three individuals on board evacuated the aircraft following the crash. They sustained only minor injuries.

Probable Cause and Contributing Factors

According to the official findings, the probable cause of the accident was a collision with the ground during takeoff due to inadequate supervision of flight. The investigation reported several contributing factors:

  • Simulated conditions were in effect.
  • The pilot-in-command was not a certified flight instructor (non CFI).
  • The engine was pulled at Vr (rotation speed).
  • The copilot, who lacked Learjet dual instruction, was performing the takeoff.

These factors combined led to the loss of control and subsequent crash.

Aftermath

The aircraft was destroyed by impact and fire. The three occupants were reported to have sustained minor injuries. No further details were provided.