On November 30, 1989, a Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) (registration N6079H) operated by Douglas W. Johnston was involved in an aviation accident near Orlando-Intl, United States of America during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of aircraft control during takeoff for an unknown reason which resulted in a collision with the ground. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Aircraft departed on IFR flight but failed to contact departure control. Found near runway 07 with evidence of left wing down, nose low impact. No preimpact failure. Both occupants killed.
Accident Overview
The aircraft was cleared for takeoff on an IFR flight. After departure, the pilot did not contact departure control as expected. A search was initiated, and the aircraft was located near the departure end of runway 07.
Evidence of Impact
Investigators found evidence that the aircraft had impacted the ground in a left wing down, nose low attitude. No preimpact part failure or malfunction of the aircraft was discovered.
Occupants
Both occupants of the aircraft were killed in the accident.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause is loss of aircraft control during takeoff for an unknown reason, which resulted in a collision with the ground.