3 fatalities

1984-01-30: Swearingen SA226 Metro II (N63Z) — Britt Airways — Terre Haute, United States of America

Terre Haute, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On January 30, 1984, a Swearingen SA226 Metro II (registration N63Z) operated by Britt Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Terre Haute, United States of America during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control in flight for undetermined reasons; contributing factors: dawn light, rain, and fog. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781219759Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed during takeoff from runway 23, coming to rest 6,300 feet from the runway end and 1,800 feet left of centerline. All three occupants were killed.

Accident Summary

After taking off from runway 23, the aircraft crashed south-southwest of the airport, approximately 6,300 feet from the departure end of the runway and roughly 1,800 feet to the left of the runway centerline. The impact occurred while the aircraft was in a steep descent. The wreckage path was scattered along a heading of 035° from the initial impact point. The aircraft was demolished by the impact and subsequent fire.

Investigation

No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found that could have caused the accident. All three occupants were killed. The investigation determined that the aircraft was not suffering from any mechanical defect prior to impact.

Probable Cause

According to the official findings, the accident was caused by a loss of control in flight for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors included dawn light conditions, rain, and fog.