1 fatality

Twin-Engine Aircraft Strikes Fence During Takeoff in Magdalena (N560E)

Magdalena, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On January 30, 1980, a Rockwell Aero Commander 560 (registration N560E) operated by Private United States of America was involved in an aviation accident near Magdalena, United States of America during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with during initial climb and subsequent crash due to inadequate supervision of flight. 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 report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine airplane struck a fence and crashed in flames during takeoff at Magdalena Airport. The pilot was killed; three other occupants were injured, two seriously. Official probable cause cited inadequate supervision of flight and multiple contributing factors.

Accident

During takeoff at Magdalena Airport, a twin-engine airplane struck a fence and subsequently crashed in flames. The pilot was killed, while three other occupants sustained injuries, two of which were serious.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause was determined as "Collision with during initial climb and subsequent crash due to inadequate supervision of flight."

Contributing Factors

The investigation identified the following contributing factors:

  • Inadequate preflight preparation
  • The copilot misused or failed to use flaps
  • The copilot failed to maintain flying speed
  • Wet runway
  • The crew failed to use all available runway
  • Improperly loaded aircraft

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jan 1980 Rockwell Aero Commander 560 accident near Magdalena, United States of America?

A twin-engine airplane struck a fence and crashed in flames during takeoff at Magdalena Airport. The pilot was killed; three other occupants were injured, two seriously. Official probable cause cited inadequate supervision of flight and multiple contributing factors.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Jan 1980 Rockwell Aero Commander 560 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jan 1980 involved a Rockwell Aero Commander 560, registration N560E, operated by Private United States of America, at Magdalena, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Collision with during initial climb and subsequent crash due to inadequate supervision of flight.