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).
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.
What happened in the 17 Nov 1978 Rockwell Shrike Commander 500 accident near Gallup, United States of America?
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.
Were there any fatalities in the 17 Nov 1978 Rockwell Shrike Commander 500 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Nov 1978 involved a Rockwell Shrike Commander 500, registration N2973F, operated by John D. Kennedy, at Gallup, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
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 on takeoff.
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