1 fatality

Twin-Engine Airplane Stalls and Crashes During Takeoff in Gallup, Passenger Killed (N2973F)

Gallup, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On November 17, 1978, a Rockwell Shrike Commander 500 (registration N2973F) operated by John D. Kennedy was involved in an aviation accident near Gallup, United States of America during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Stall during initial climb due to inadequate preflight preparation on part of the pilot. Contributing factors: failed to maintain flying speed, airframe ice, improper operation of powerplant and powerplant controls, frost on aircraft, turbochargers not used… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine airplane stalled and crashed during takeoff from Gallup-Senator Clark Airport, killing the passenger and seriously injuring the pilot. The aircraft was destroyed.

Accident Summary

A twin-engine airplane encountered difficulties gaining altitude during takeoff from Gallup-Senator Clark Airport. The aircraft stalled and subsequently crashed in flames. The passenger was killed, and the pilot sustained serious injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.

Investigation Findings

Investigators determined that the accident resulted from a stall during the initial climb. The probable cause was inadequate preflight preparation by the pilot. Several contributing factors were identified: failure to maintain flying speed, airframe ice, improper operation of the powerplant and powerplant controls, frost on the aircraft, and turbochargers not being used during takeoff.