On October 17, 1980, a Rockwell Aero Commander 500 (registration N6395U) operated by James B. Urban was involved in an aviation accident near Buffalo, United States of America during takeoff. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled collision with ground during initial climb due to inadequate preflight preparation. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine airplane crashed shortly after takeoff from Buffalo Airport in blowing snow, killing all four occupants. The accident was attributed to a controlled collision with ground due to inadequate preflight preparation.
Accident Overview
A twin-engine airplane departed from Buffalo Airport under conditions of blowing snow. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft encountered difficulties maintaining a positive rate of climb. It subsequently collided with the ground and crashed. All four occupants on board were killed.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was a controlled collision with ground during the initial climb, resulting from inadequate preflight preparation. Several contributing factors were identified: the pilot failed to maintain a positive rate of climb; low ceiling and high density altitude were present; visibility was one mile or less; blowing snow was occurring; the mixtures were found to be at full rich; and the airport elevation is 4,951 feet.
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